#yes birdie will be able to fight

[mrsparrasblog]

SAUNA SOAP🌞

You hated your job. Working in the SPA of a 5-star hotel was not as luxurious as people made it out to be. The therapist got tipped while you needed to do the infusions, clean around the mess the guests left, deal with touchy customers, and worst of all, tell guests all over again that they can't fuck in the sauna, pool, or whatever. Well, at least you got paid 1pound above the minimum wage.

So you spent another day standing at the front desk of the SPA and trying to look useful. Nothing ordinary happened until a handsome Adonis walked into the spa. Fuck, he came up the elevator wearing only a towel around his hips, not hiding his perfect sculpted abs; he looked like an Adonis; his biceps was probably bigger than your head; and you looked up to see his beautiful face. His face had some badass scars, wrinkles, and the most gorgeous set of eyes you ever saw in your life.

"Good morning, sir. How can I help you today?" you said, trying to hide your enormous blush from him. You were used to naked people in front of you, but this man was different; he made your legs press together behind the corner, like a horney slut.

"Awright bonny, a'm 'ere fur th' sauna cuid ye shaw me th' wey" You hated yourself for not understanding him, but his voice was already the cause of your wet dreams for the next few months.

"I'm not called Bonny" was the only response you could gather to say and point to your nametag.

He chuckled, "Sorry, lass, I'm used to people understanding my accent. Could you show me the way to the sauna, please?"

"Of course, sir, please follow me." You walked out behind your reception, guiding him the way through the almost empty SPA.

"No need to call me, sir; I'm not much older than you," he said, throwing you a cheeky smile.

"We're here" He went into the sauna and thanked you. And you hated yourself for not being able to flirt with this man. This was a one-time chance to meet a man who was able to be on the new season of the bachelor of your county, and you failed.

After a few hours, you prepared an infusion smelling like amber and peppermint, so you went to the sauna. To your disappointment, your new customer crush wasn't there. You started with your usual show, throwing towels around and then leaving the sauna. Leaning against a wall, panting after being in the 90-degree sauna.

And there it was again, a man approaching you without a towel wrapped around his hips as if it weren't common courtesy to hide your own, oh god, erect cock. You tried your hardest to look into his eyes, but that ugly dick of his was like a car accident earthquake and a fire at the same time.

"If it's too hot for you, I wouldn't mind seeing you less clothed; you must be sweating in this tight and long uniform," he said, tucking your hair behind your ears.

You were more than disgusted by this behavior, but it was nothing new for you. "Sir, I feel uncomfortable with this situation."

"Come on, little bird, you girls take these things so seriously. I was just flirting a bit."

"And I want you to stop flirting," you said, sounding confident and not showing an ounce of your fear. You knew there wasn't much staff around anymore.

"Come on, Birdy, I paid so much for my stay; there should be something in it for me." He started to put his hand on your hips, pulling you closer to him. You were so ready to fight him off, but before your knee could make contact with his crotch, the Adonis men was behind you, towering over you.

"She said no, you better leave now or I'll help you leave bastard." You fell behind in his massive frame after the man pulled away from your hip.

"Sorry, mate," he said, walking out of the spa to his hotel room with a hint of embarrassment. Asshole was afraid of Adonis.

You turned around to face him, blushing at how close you were. "Thank you, sir."

"No problem, lass, call me Johnny, not this Sir nonsense," he smirked at you, and you felt like you melted on the ground immediately.

"Okay, thank you, Johnny. You can have a drink on the house; just grab something from the bar." This would be the least you could do.

"When urr ye off, a'm waantin' tae keep edgy fur ye nae that that bastard comes back." You felt the butterflies in your stomach when he said he wanted to protect you.

"Johnny I'm a big girl; you don't need to ruin your vacation by looking out for a stranger."

"Beautiful stranger." You blushed at his compliment and thanked him. You worked for the next three hours and then started to clean everything so you could close. When you locked the door, only you and Johnny were there. You approached him, but he still sat in the sauna. His marvelous body was glistering with sweat, just like his weird but funny hair. You noticed how he sat there with his legs wide open without a towel, so you had a perfect view of his manhood.

"Aye, sorry, I didn't notice ye" he said, hiding his manhood from you.

"Don't worry, I see them every day."

"Och, ye dinnae ken how tae flatter a lad," he said, acting fake hurt, which gifted him a slight chuckle from you. "Ye kin at least admit a'm a het lad."

"You're a hot lad, Johnny. Happy?" Your eyes wandered down his abs.

"Take a picture; it lasts longer."

"Uhm, sorry, I just think you're very handsome. I like your biceps."

"Do you want to touch it, hen?"

You nodded, slightly embarrassed; this is still your workplace after all.

Johnny's breath hitched slightly as you touched him, his muscles tensing. "Feel that, sweetheart? That's pure Scottish strength. It's also quite sensitive... If you know how to handle it properly."

"You work out a lot?" You asked already knowing the answer.

Smirking, Johnny leaned in close, whispering in your ear. His stubbles touched your neck as he did this.

"Aye, lassie. I work out every chance I get. And believe me, it's more than just to maintain my looks." Soap grinned, flexing his bicep slightly for you. "Feel that again, lass. You can't deny the pure muscle you're touching. And don't even get me started on these abs. I've been told they're quite impressive." He was pretty arrogant, but you couldn't deny that he was allowed to be arrogant after looking like this.

"They are. I'm sorry I'm acting unprofessional." You remembered your minimum wage job.

Johnny chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "Oh, don't apologize, hen. Unprofessional behavior can be quite endearing. Besides, I'm not one to judge." He leaned in close, his voice barely above a whisper.

As your gaze dropped lower to his prominent V line and his thick happy trail, Soap caught the subtle hint of curiosity in your eyes. Leaning back slightly, he ran his free hand teasingly over his toned abs before continuing. "You seem quite interested in this area, don't ya?"

You blushed immediately. "I'm so sorry."

Johnny chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Sorry for what? For being a horny wee lassie? There's nothing wrong with that." He reached down, his fingers tracing the outline of his hardened member through his towel. "See this?"

"Oh, Johnny," it was thicker than anything you had in your life and will have.

With a devilish grin, Soap pressed his thick shaft against your stomach, causing you to gasp. "Want a taste?" he asked softly.

"I work in this Spa and you are a customer Johnny I can't just blow you in the Sauna"

Johnny chuckled again, pulling his cock back from you. "Didn't say you had to blow me?" he replied with a wink. "Though I wouldn't mind that." You couldn't stop laughing at his comment.

Soap smirked at your laughter, taking it as a good sign. "Listen, hen," he started, his voice now low and rough with desire. "I've had my fair share of women throwing themselves at me, but you're not throwing yourself at me. You subtle, I like that, and I never had sex in a sauna, and you're one hell of a looker, the most beautiful girl I've seen in ages."

"I never had sex in a sauna too."

"So" He unwrapped the towel around his waist, making sure you got a good look at his hard cock pointing at you. "How about we fuck in the sauna?"

"That's pretty forward, Johnny."

He chuckled warmly at your comment. "Aye, lass, I'm forward when I want something," he replied confidently, taking a step closer to you. "And I really want this."

As you watched in anticipation, Soap slowly unbuttoned your uniform, revealing more of your delectable body with each button that flew open. His eyes roamed hungrily over your curves, taking in every detail. "Yer sae bonny"

Once your pants were off, Soap gently pushed you onto the bench in the sauna, his eyes locked onto your clothed sex. He took one of his thick fingers and started to circle your clit with it. You couldn't help but moan; he was doing it better than any man before. He didn't treat you like a scratcher; he knew what he did, which made you feel insecure. Of course, men like him would have more experience than you do.

"You look and sound like an angel; can I—my little man can't wait any longer?" You laughed at his words and just nodded.

He positioned himself between your legs, rubbing the head of his cock against your entrance before slowly pushing inside.

"God, that's fast." You whined as he split you in half with his thick cock.

Johnny grunted in pleasure as he felt you tighten around him. "Fuck, lass," he groaned, starting to thrust slowly inside of you. His hands found their way to your tits, squeezing them roughly as he took his time fucking you.

Johnny picked up the pace, slamming his hips against yours as he fucked you hard in the sauna. The sound of your flesh slapping together filled the small room, echoing off the walls.

His cock throbbed inside of you, reaching deeper with each thrust. Your body glistened with sweat in the hot sauna. Johnny growled low in his throat, his face contorting with pleasure as he continued to pound into you. Sweat dripped from his body onto yours.

"Fuck, you're so tight." You scratched his back, gripping hard on his biceps. You needed to hold back and not cum too fast so you couldn't embarrass yourself in front of him.

Johnny hissed in pleasure at the scratches down his back, leaning into the bite and scratch marks on his neck as he felt you grip his biceps. His hips picked up speed, slamming harder into you as he reached around to pinch and twist your nipples.

Feeling you close to orgasm, Johnny moved a hand between your legs, rubbing your clit firmly as he continued to pound into you. His fingers circled your swollen bud, teasing it until you cried out incoherently. "Johnny"

Johnny groaned, feeling himself getting closer as well. He picked up the pace even more, slamming into you harder as he leaned forward to capture one of your nipples in his mouth, sucking and biting gently.

He growled low in his throat as you wrapped your legs around him, taking him deeper inside of you. He moaned into your skin, his teeth grazing lightly as he nipped at your other nipple. "Fuck," he panted, "I'm going to cum."

"Mhm, you can cum inside; I'm on the pill." It was foolish of you to let a stranger cum inside of you, but you were too fucked out to properly think.

Hearing your enthusiastic agreement, Johnny let out a groan of relief as he felt his climax building. With one last hard thrust, he erupted inside of you, his cock pulsing as he shot his hot cum deep inside your wet cunt.

Johnny panted, his heart racing, as he leaned down to kiss your full lips. "That," he whispered against your lips, "was fucking incredible." He pulled out of you slowly, his still-hard cock slipping out of your pussy with a wet pop.

"I usually don't do things like this with strangers, I swear." This was your first nightstand and even in your workplace. What must he think of you?

"Well, I'm glad you made an exception for me." Johnny grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. He reached down to stroke his cock a few times, getting it slick with his own precum before pressing the head against your entrance again. "Ready for round two?" This man must be joking, right?

"Another one?"

"You bet your sweet ass I am," Johnny growled, pushing his thick cock back inside of you in one swift motion. He slid in completely this time, his hips meeting yours as he began to thrust into you again, harder and faster than before.

You needed to regain power so you wouldn't come immediately "Mhm, fuck, let me be on top."

"You got it," Johnny grunted, pulling out of you so that you could mount him. He helped guide your hips as you positioned yourself on top of him, his hands sliding down to grab your ass and pull you closer.

You bounced on his dick with so much passion and enthusiasm as he had never seen in a woman; you were so eager to please him and so eager to sleep with him. You weren't like this usual starfish woman; you were perfect.

Johnny moaned, loving the feeling of your wet pussy slamming against his cock as you rode him with all your might. His hands gripped your hips tightly, guiding your movements as he watched you in awe. "Fuck me, woman. "Yeah, I'm definitely feeling that." Johnny groaned out, his body arching off the ground as you continued to ride him. He reached up to grab one of your tits, squeezing it gently before rolling the nipple between his thumb and forefinger.

"A Boob Guy, huh?"

"Well, I'm a man," Johnny chuckled, running his free hand down your back to your ass before squeezing it. "And I definitely appreciate a nice pair of tits." He nipped at your earlobe before biting gently, making you moan loudly. With every movement of your hips, his veiny cock hit your Gspot perfectly, making you whine and moan in pleasure.

"Johnny, I'm close."

He growled, "Come for me then, lass." He held onto your hips, his cock throbbing inside you as he felt you getting closer. Just as you started to tense up, he thrust up into you hard, feeling your pussy clenching around him, milking him as you came undone.

He continued to thrust into you until he couldn't hold back any longer, his cock erupting inside of you with his hot and sticky cum.

Johnny leaned his forehead against yours, his breathing ragged as he held you close. "One hell of a fuck, wasn't it?" he asked with a smirk.

"Yes," you stated monotonously. You screwed up your chance of dating this guy by simply fucking him the first time you saw him.

Johnny chuckled softly before kissing your neck, nibbling gently. "Now then, what's got you all wound up?" He asked curiously, running his hands down your back and ass.

"Was this a one-night thing, or could I get your number? Oh god, it's embarrassing. I never had sex with a random man, and now I'm asking for your number. I'm stupid." You started to ramble while looking into his beautiful eyes.

Johnny smiled at you, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "A one-night thing? Hardly." He said it teasingly, tracing a finger down your cheek. "I'm not the kind of man who gives up so easily once he has a taste."

"So?"

"So, how about we exchange numbers?" Johnny suggested with a grin. "I mean, unless you're afraid, I might call you at all hours of the night."

"I'll give you my number."

He raised an eyebrow in surprise but quickly took out his phone to enter your number. "Alright then, pretty girl." He said, pressing the buttons on his phone. "You've got mine too. Don't forget it." He gave you some sloppy kisses and helped you put on your clothes again.

Before he left, you screamed to him. "Call me."

"I will," he assured you with a wink, and he left the spa on his way to his hotel room.

A moment later, your phone rang, and you answered. "Hello?"

"I promised to call you, Mo leannan

[thepenultimateword]

Secret Santa 2023

For this year’s secret Santa I got @watercolorfreckles (I know you got mine too, but I promise I used a randomizer!) I’m sorry this is late, I’ve been traveling and just writing every chance I can get. I got a little overambitious and wrote several scenes instead of just one, so hopefully it doesn’t feel choppy and you like it!

"Hero's shy medic is the unsung and unappreciated glue that keeps the team together, magically repairing their every injury with her power to heal. What happens when Villain finds out how the hero's broken bones are always so quickly mending, and kidnaps the medic to utilize himself?"

Henchman was waiting in baggage claim when Villain arrived. His violet-dyed hair, thick mess of scars, and tall stature made him stand out against the crowd, but he still waved his whole arm over his head as Villain came through the doors.

Villain's glove creaked feelingless against his suitcase handle. This was getting tiresome. Probably for Henchman too. It was ridiculous that he insisted on picking him up from the airport every trip instead of looking for a new employer.

"Any luck?" Henchman said, seamlessly transferring Villain's bag into his own hand.

Villain's insides twisted. Maybe he should fire Henchman. That would force the underling to think about himself. Though Villain couldn't deny his reluctance to lose such loyalty. He wasn't sure he actually had the strength to enforce his own abandonment.

"Nah." He rubbed his numb hands together and forced a lighthearted tone. "Just another waste of money. I spent three weeks meditating away the damage, only for the so-called "power guru" to say I don't want to be healed. Apparently, if I did, I would have been able to banish the "bile" from my body."

Henchman gave the suitcase wheels a little bang against the ground. "Morons and scam artists.”

"Yes, well, it was a 50/50 shot in the first place. How's my bird?"

Henchman grimaced. "Still eating very little. She has stopped beating against her cage, but now she's very lethargic and despondent."

"You've tried cheering her up? Good food, nice things?"

"Yes, but she's not very chatty. Maybe we should have waited to get her until after your trip. This would have gone better with...some stability."

The automatic door swooshed open, and they stepped out into the chill winter air. Villain blew out a long cloudy breath and watched it disappear into the dreary, gray city landscape. Everything was so temporary. Here one moment, gone the next.

"The opportunity was too good," he said. "Besides, we couldn't leave her with our friend."

Hero had enough of an advantage without also having a decent healer on his side. No matter how many hits Villain divvied out, the heroic team always got back up unscathed. Perhaps without their golden goose, Villain could actually turn the tide. And maybe... Villain didn't want to get his hopes up, but maybe she could do something more too. He knew that Henchman knew that was the main reason he’d stolen her away in the first place. By this point he was just pretending to himself that there was a bigger purpose behind it all.

The crosswalk sign beeped its permission to cross the street, and Villain scanned the lot for Henchman's car, spotting its orangey paint job near the front.

"I am concerned she's been doing poorly this whole time. Why don't we stop by her enclosure first."

Henchman nodded and very kindly played along with the act that this was truly concern over an asset and not another cowardly excuse for himself. “I don’t think she’ll be very pleased to see you.”

She’s not going to help you.

“That’s alright.” Villain slid into the passenger seat. As Henchman loaded his suitcase into the trunk, he muttered under his breath, “I don’t have much left to lose.”

***

Villain called her Birdie.

Of course he knew her real title as Hero’s medic, but the nickname just encapsulated her so well.

So small. So skittish. Always flitting around the outskirts of a fight, the great folds of her medic’s cloak flapping at her sides like wings as she lighted briefly at each fallen party. The color was supposed to mark her as a noncombatant, take any targets of her back, but she had the instincts to remain wary always. Most villains didn’t follow the rules, and the gray was as likely to get her killed as not.

So why continue to wear it? Villain wondered, watching her through the one way glass of her cell's wall mirror. It was really more of a mini apartment than a cell--sitting room, bedroom, bathroom. The sitting room was the only room Villain could view into, but he doubted whether Medic knew that. Perhaps it was riskier to give a hostage so much blind space, but anyone worth keeping around couldn't be kept like any regular prisoner. Though, from the looks of it, Medic wasn't exactly grateful for the thoughtful accommodations.

She sat with her face buried in her knees, grey cloak nearly swallowing her little curled up body whole. He'd asked Henchman to prepare daily clothes changes, and the peeking green edge of sleeve implied she'd been taking them, but the cloak remained the same.

Villain moved around to the front of the cell and drew back the bolt on the otherwise regular door, taking a breath before swinging it open with a flourish. “Hello, Birdie.”

The woman leaped a little, head shooting up and fixing him in the inky black pools that were her eyes.

“Sorry for the delay." He locked the door behind him as casually as he could manage. "I’ve been out of town. But now we can finally chat."

Medic blinked then turned her chin into her shoulder.

Villain plopped down on the couch a couple feet away from her place on the rug. "Apparently you haven't been eating properly. Is the food not up to standard? Can I get you something else? Any favorite meals or treats?"

Medic didn't turn or respond.

"Hmm...what do birdies like. Worms?"

The healer's lip curled a little but still nothing.

"How about chocolate? Steak? Fruit tarts?"

Medic only tucked her chin tighter.

"Alright, I get it. The nice treatment doesn't work on you. Unfortunately, I don't have a mean treatment. Not for you at least. I can't asks favors from someone by relying on fear."

That got her attention. She still didn't unfold, but her eyes watched him sideways. Wary but curious. What could a villain need from a healer. He must have his own, so why her? She didn't need to speak for her thoughts to clutter the air.

"No, I can't just tell you," Villain said with a loud sigh. "You might go tell that precious hero team. I know you're quiet, but I don't believe for a second you're that quiet."

Medic swiveled her shoulders ever so slightly. "How...?"

Her voice was not so birdlike. Short yes, but like a rasped breath than a chirp. Still...

Villain grinned. "The very best of ways: by pretending I knew what you were thinking. Throw out a guess and you'll be right 80% percent of the time. That's also a guess by the way, I haven't actually researched the subject."

Medic retreated back into her cloak.

Darn.

Either he was totally unhumorous, or Medic was just that hard to entertain. Then again, she'd seemed interested by the prospect of a supernatural ability. She'd only clammed up again once she got the simple explanation for her question. She should've already known his Gift from the fights she'd witnessed, though he had held bad considerably this last year.

"You're not like other medics," he said, redirecting the conversation. "You have a Gift, don't you? And don't deny it, I've seen the recovery your patients. Scarless, rapid, perfect. One fight I saw a hero putting full weight on what, minutes previously, had been broken femur."

"And that's why you want me?" Medic squeezed her hands together, nails digging into the back of her knuckles like each word spoken aloud pained her. "Because I'm better than your medics? You want me to turncoat?"

"Not entirely. I took you because your good, yes. So good you've kept that ragtag trash hero team up and running way longer than it should have ever been allowed to go. Hero needs to be stopped."

Nothing.

"I'm going to the statue unveiling tonight." He watched her face closely. "I'm going to break it. And while I'm at it, break him."

"He's not that fragile," Medic said, her voice hushing a little further, and her brow furrowing.

"Ah, you know because you've tried?"

"I know because I' m his medic and I know how much treatment each fight requires." It came out quite a bit snappier than Villain expected and Medic must have realized it too because she set her jaw and looked away again. "I can't help you."

Villain pushed himself back to his feet. The declaration was firm, but hardly the denial of a truly devoted team member. Or maybe he was just reading to hard into things. Medic was shy. Maybe she wanted to make herself clear in as few words as possible. But if there was a chance only her fear was holding her back...

"I'll let you know how it goes," Villain said. With that, he made his way back outside the cell, bolting the door behind him with fumbling fingers. He flexed his hands a couple times, as if to warm them back to full function, but they felt as clumsy and disconnected as always. He shoved them gloved into his coat pockets.

Don't think about that. You have a hero to fight.

***

Villain couldn't feel his shoulders. He'd definitely overdone it. He'd overestimated his ability to fight with his arms as damaged as they were and he had relied too much on the power he'd been so careful to conserve.

He stumbled hard against Medic's door, sliding weakly to his knees. He didn't know why he came here. Henchman was probably having a fit searching for him after he'd bolted. Most of those heroes laid in shattered pieces at the scene. Or at least, parts of them did. Villain had found long ago that his Gift--the power to turn whatever he willed to stone--could be used strategically. The loss of limbs was usually enough to make a hero retire, no need to end a whole life. He wouldn't have minded ending Hero, but once again, the leader was the only one who escaped unscathed. Too this day Villain had only ever managed to take a pinky. It was a wonder no one found that suspicious.

Villain slammed his fist against the cell door, or more like tapped. He stifled a sob. “I don’t want to die.”

Not yet. Not without bringing down Hero’s deceit.

Villain strained to reach the bolt, fumbling it twice before finally jostling it outward. He practically collapsed onto Medic’s rug.

Dark spots clouded his vision but suddenly cool hands were running trails down his face.

“Villain?”

Medic?

No wait, the door…he needed to close…why was she still here?

“Uuughh…” Villain rolled into her knees. “It did not go well.”

“What did he do?”

“Besides use every other person as a shield?”

“I mean to your face.”

Villain squinted up into Medic’s dark eyes, so deep and concerned and…and infinite.

“My face,” he mumbled.

“Are these bruises?” Her fingers trailed a second time down his cheek. “It looks painful.”

“It’s in my face?” Villain barely restrained a wail.

“Villain,” Medic said firmly, her quiet rasp getting almost loud. “What happened? Do you need healing?”

Villain’s throat felt thick and swollen, too sticky to get out words. Of course he needed healing. But if she couldn’t help him…he didn’t know if he could take another failure. He didn’t know if his body could take it.

He extended his hand. When Medic only stared, he nodded at the black, fitted glove.

Medic’s thumb worked under the edge. Villain felt nothing but he imagined her fingers felt just as gentle as they had on his cheek.

She gasped.

Villain glanced at the bare skin for only a moment. The once caramel colored palm now a deep ebony. Like something rotten. Like something dead.

“Villain?”

Villain cleared his throat, fighting the words upward. “All powers have a price.” He forced himself to look at blighted appendage. “Mine’s is killing me.”

Medic turned his hand over in her own. “How long?”

“Always. It used to just be a little. Nails. Hair. Parts I could cut off. Then it hit skin…and it won’t stop. I can’t feel; I can hardly move. And no one…” He choked. “I’m going to die. All from trying too hard to rid the world of Hero, and I couldn’t even finish him tonight.”

Medic rested her fingers on the cuff of Villain’s sleeve, eyes meeting Villain's with some unspoken request for permission.

Villain nodded.

Medic's nimble fingers gently picked at the button, freeing the fabric and rolling it up to his elbow. Villain’s eyes widened along with hers. What had once had been dark veins was now as pitch black his hands. From the nothingness in his shoulders it was probably no different above the elbow.

Medic felt gently at the half-petrifaction. Most people, even his most loyal were afraid of the blight. Henchman was unfazed, but the previous medic had quit rather than admit they didn't want anywhere near Villain. And yet Medic touched him willingly.

“You can’t fix it, can you?” Villain said, practically plead. He didn’t care anymore. Even with the doubt in his gut and in his voice. He just needed help.

“I…I might…” Medic said.

“But Hero wouldn’t like it.”

Medic ducked her head. “It’s not that. Well, no…you’re right, he wouldn’t, but he wouldn’t have to know. And there are no specific rules that say I can’t heal a villain, it’s just…”

Villain blinked groggily up at her as she chewed her bottom lip.

“Like you said, all powers have a price.”

“And this one is too much,” Villain said.

“Yes, well, no. I don’t know.” She glanced toward the open door. “Maybe there’s a better healer…”

Villain closed his eyes, practically sinking with resignation. “No. Already tried. I don’t think I have the energy to search anymore.” He clasped numb fingers around his numb arm. “Or the time.”

A long silence stretched between them.

“It’s alright, Birdie. Fly away.”

It didn’t matter who she told now.

Medic pushed him carefully off her lap, clothes rustling as she rose. Two steps sounded toward the door way and then stopped.

“I’m not supposed to…but I’ll do it.”

Villains eyes shot open. “You will?”

Medic sucked in her lips but nodded. “Just…don’t tell.”

She knelt beside him, long gray cloak fanning out around her. The second glove peeled off easier than the first, and she held both hands in hers.

He’d always wondered what it felt it like to experience one of her gifted healings.

It was warm. Like drinking something hot. It spread from head to toe, and the numbness leeched out little by little. The skin lightened from black to charcoal from charcoal to heather grey from grey to brown.

Medic’s hands turned soft in his grip. He squeezed them lightly, his mouth parting in disbelief at the feeling of pressure of warmth of regular mobility. When he sat up, it came easy. Tears sprang to his eyes.

“You did it! You actually did it! Medic, you are—“

He stopped at the sight of her slumping figure. Sweat rolled down her temples, her face was flushed, and her teeth were grit as if in agony.

“Birdie?”

Medic only shivered.

“Birdie. Birdie, are you alright?”

Villain reached out, but she lurched back, stumbling toward the back corner. Veiny blackness spread from her fingertips, trailing up the creases in her skin. Her shoulders trembled. A small vein popped out of from her forehead. And she glared at the blight. Not like someone afraid of it, but like someone who’d like to peel it off and throw it away. Or burn it.

“No!” she cried and slammed both palms against the wall mirror with a feral cry. Immediately the glass crackled and, like a rolling wave, turned to cold, hard stone.

The black faded from dark ebony to a tan spot only

A few shades darker than her skin. She still glared.

Villain gaped. “You… That’s what I do. How did you do what I do? Did I…? Did you…?”

Medic’s eyes darted toward the door.

Villain jumped in front of it first. “Hey hey hey! I’m not going to tell!”

Another guess but apparently the right one because Medic’s shouldered untensed a fraction.

“I’m not going to tell,” Villain repeated. “I just… How?”

Medic wrapped her cloak tighter around herself. Her eyes had taken on a glazed shine suspiciously alike to unshed tears.

“It’s not exactly healing,” she murmured. “More like stealing. Taking injuries and making them mine.”

“The price.”

She nodded. “But this sort of injury…made from a Gift, it doesn’t work the same. It’s more like a build up of power concentrated in one place. And now that it’s mine…I can do what I like with it.”

Villain cocked his head. “And that’s…bad?”

“I don’t work for Hero,” Medic said. “I’m on the team because he’s supposed to watch me. Stop me from doing things like this.”

“Becoming too powerful?”

“Becoming a villain.”

Villain might have laughed if she didn’t actually look so scared. He took her hands carefully, savoring the sensation of skin on skin warmth once again. He fixed her with a hard stare that she seemed uncertain to hold or shy away from. He smiled, the first real one in a long time.

“What’s wrong with villains?”

Medic swallowed, looking away but not pulling back her hands. Her voice came out very quiet. “I guess…not everything.”

[visionofhope04]

Hiii I was wondering if you could do Batfam x sister reader being Damian’s twin and rather than persuing the same thing as their dad and being a vigilante she becomes a famous singer (ya know famous name and good music) and she releases and album (maybe emails I can’t send idk something) and like family being there for her first sold out concert and yeah just supportive of her carrere

Angst is my thing but I’ll do my best to make this as fluffy as possible. Not beta read, sorry if there are any mistakes, feel free to let me know. Hope you like it!

—-

“Father?”

“Yes?” Bruce was concerned. You kept shifting your weight and fiddling with your fingers. He’s never seen you this nervous before. He tensed, preparing for the worst.

“Iwanttobeasinger.” You blurted, looking anywhere you could that wasn’t his face.

Bruce blinked. “Can you say that a bit slower please sweetheart?”

You took a steadying deep breath. “I want to be a singer.” You said significantly slower.

Bruce let out a deep breath and let his body sag. He’d never been religious but in that moment he thanked whatever was up there for helping him.

You looked at him, confused.

“I thought you were gonna ask to be a vigilante.”

Your face contorted in alarm. “Me? A vigilante? Never.”

He chuckled and then brought attention back to what you said. “So you want to be a singer? How do you plan on doing this?”

“Y-you don’t care?” You questioned in shock.

“Why would I care? You’re my daughter and I will always love and support you. I’m glad you found something you really enjoy and intend to make a career out of it. Finding something you enjoy doing is hard, being able to make a career out of it is harder. If it makes you happy then I’ll gladly help you with it if you need it.”

“Even though it’s a bad career?”

“Some people in it may be bad but it doesn’t make the career bad. Music is all about self expression and is a great outlet for emotions. It brings people together and makes them realize they’re not alone. I think you’ll be an amazing singer.”

You began to tear up but do your best to hold it back, “Thank you father.”

—-

“I want to be a singer.”

Immediately, everyone stopped talking and looked at you. You did your best to not shrink under the sudden attention. Usually, you never spoke at the dinner table, content to just listen.

“That sounds like a great idea Birdy!” Dick said.

“Lil sis’ gonna be the talk of the town.” Jason smirked at you.

“That’s great! I can’t wait to hear it! Tim exclaimed.

Damian’s reaction is the one you feared the most. He’d always disliked you leaving behind the life of fighting for a mundane one.

“I think that is a respectable profession.”

At your brothers’ approval, you broke out into a wide grin. Bruce was smiling openly at you all and wondered how he got so lucky to have such an amazing, supportive family.

---

You were backstage, makeup done, earpiece linked, and microphone ready to go. You were really nervous. This was going to be your first-ever live performance since you released your first album. It was such a hit, it became the number 1 album on the charts a few hours after release, with over 30 million streams. You were stuck in your thoughts when you felt a hand on your shoulder. You turned to look at the person, it was your father.

"Don't be nervous, you're going to do great. I'm so proud of you. You're so talented and amazing. They're going to love you out there."

"Thanks dad." You smiled. His words warmed your heart. No one ever told you they were proud of you before. Despite what he said, you still felt a little nervous.

After waiting a bit more, it was time for you to get on stage. You heard cheering in the crowd as you emerged from the darkness. Now in the spotlight, your nerves came back tenfold. The bright lights blinded you, but you could still see the silhouettes of everyone who came to see you tonight. There were way more people here than you expected. You stepped up to the mic and adjusted it.

"Hello," The crowd's cheering picked up. You smiled and waited for it to quiet down before continuing. "thank you all for coming. I appreciate every single one of you. You made it possible for me to be standing here right now and I am so grateful. Enjoy the show!" The crowd's cheering picked up yet again as your first song came on.

---

You were so tired but so, so happy. The concert was a major success and nothing went wrong. You had so much fun getting to know your audience and calling people up on stage. You got backstage and your whole family was there.

"You did amazing!!"

"You're my new favorite singer."

"She's been my favorite singer, keep up."

"Your voice is unmatched, my dear girl."

"I knew you could do it."

"You were adequate, don't let the praise get to your head."

Your face hurt from grinning, and you could help but feel elated. Your family's support meant the world to you, and you were so grateful for it.

[story-island]

Shot From Above (Simon Riley X Fem Reader)

A/N: Hey everyone! I wrote this one as a longer piece, I might post a part two or the other half might just end up as a whole separate work, because it could be. Anyways, hope you enjoy!

Summary: You and Ghost are on the tail end of a convoy and get shot from above by helicopter. Forcing you and Ghost to get a little closer. Super fluffy aside from descriptions of gun fighting.

Warnings: Descriptions of being shot at, Car roll over, Explosions, Swearing

Word Count: 2.6K

"Ghost, we got birds!" you said to the man sitting passenger to you.

"I see that Birdie, weird being on the other side?" he asked calmly as you drove, avoiding RPG shots as you went.

"Yeah, it fucking sucks" you replied, still keeping your eyes on the road and bird.

You were known to be on one of the best helicopter support teams, so being at the receiving end of chopper fire was new to you.

"Can you get a shot on it?" you asked annoyed that he hadn't even looked out to see it better.

"No, my rounds won't make it that high and still damage enough."

Your mind was reeling, you needed to feel in control of something, everything was up in the air, and you were narrowly avoiding the shots at this point.

"Fuck okay, when they get in range, the tail is your best shot, it might spiral out of control with enough rounds." you said, feeling your anxiety grab you tighter.

"When did you start out-ranking me?" Ghost asked with only a small bit of anger in his voice.

"Um . . I don't sir"

"Then you don't tell me where to put my bullets do you"

"No sir, sorry sir, won't happen again" you said, through a voice crack.

"Don't be sorry, do better." He said coldly.

"Yes sir."

The rockets were getting closer and closer, and you were running out of road and ideas, but the silence that fell in the cab made it a little easier. That was until you miss calculated when you needed to punch it to get out of range. It was a simple mistake that anyone could have made, but it was enough to put you in some deep shit.

In a flash the front of your truck was hit, forcing you to go straight into a series of rolls. You ended up somewhere off the road, mind fuzzy and vision blurry you moved to unbuckle yourself quickly. Noticing that you were the only one in the car. Once you fell to the roof of the vehicle you knew you only had moments to kick out the glass and run for your life. But fuck did it hurt to move, you were banged up pretty bad.

Moving yourself, screaming as you kicked as hard as possible against the glass. It broke the first try, and before you could crawl out, a strong hand was pulling you out by your leg. Ghost had obviously fared better, being able to pull you up in a flash.

"Tree cover" he half yelled, forcing both of you into an all-out sprint.

Not five seconds after you made it away from the truck it exploded, almost pushing you to the ground. Still hearing shots from above, you weren't sure if they would follow you or go after the rest of your convoy. You hoped that you toyed with the Helo long enough for everyone to split up and find their own ways back to base.

"You good?" Ghost asked, breaking the silence before slowing down to a jog for your sake.

"Yeah" you said, breathlessly, thankful he slowed down a bit.

"Your bleeding" he commented, seeing a pretty nasty looking cut on your head.

"Yeah" you responded.

He caught how distant you were with the response, so instead Ghost changed the subject.

"Safe house is three miles out, keep up" he said.

"Sure thing L.T." you said, as he pushed back into a run, slightly slower than before.

The majority of the run was quiet, you were focused on the pain you were feeling, trying to push through. However, at some point you spoke up to thank Ghost for saving you.

"Thank you for getting me out, and not just leaving me in the truck" you said, breathily.

Ghost didn't respond with more than a nod in your direction. He heard you.

You weren't more than five minutes out from Ghost's safe house, but you were getting tired, and the pain was still draining you piece by piece. Eventually though you came to a small one-story building in a big clearing on a hill. It was a nice little place, with great advantage points in case of ambush.

"We stay here for the night," Ghost said, hoping through a window.

This time it was your turn not to respond, just following him into the building.

"Since you'll be up taking care of that nasty thing, why don't you take first watch." he said, dropping some of his gear in a room he seemed to claim.

"Yes sir" you stated, annoyed at him, he must be punishing you at this point.

"I'll be sleeping, wake me when you get too tired." he said, hating how silent you were.

Dropping some of your stuff you went to get a med kit and a mirror. Settling in a room with two windows that looked different ways you got comfortable. Taking a moment to take care of yourself you held the mirror up and saw how bad it looked. It was large, but not as deep as it could be. Didn't need stitches, Ghost wouldn't have made you run if it was that serious. So, you cleaned up the dried blood from your face before bandaging it for a little so it could start healing.

You were determined to have the bandage off before you went back, not wanting to make a big deal out of it. But for now, you would keep it as clean as possible. When you were done, and the med pack was put back together you finally settled in for a long night of being hard on yourself.

Being a naturally anxious person made quiet nights like this hell, having just got in trouble in the past few hours. You escaped into your mind, trying to figure out how to be better as Ghost suggested. Though it might be extreme to some you decided the best way to stop today's event from repeating was to start being quieter. The messed-up logic being that if you don't speak as much you won't accidentally order your superiors around.

You also figured it best to stay on watch for as long as possible, not wanting to meet a cranky Ghost. So, the night fell, and you watched. At some point you saw it getting lighter out, realizing it was daytime you lost any hope of getting sleep. Watching the horizon, you failed to notice the massive, but quiet Ghost behind you.

"It's morning, why didn't you wake me?" he asked, with an edge to his tone.

"I never got that tired." you lied, barely keeping a yawn in.

"Don't lie to me" he warned, stepping closer, now only a little more than a foot separating the two of you.

You didn't respond.

"Jesus Christ Y/N I am not punishing you, fucking nine hours on watch is too much when there are two of us. We talked about this not even a month ago, four-hour shifts and you wake me up." He stated, anger radiating off his body, but it didn't seem to be directed all at you.

"What do you want me to do then" you asked, looking for some way to fix the mess you were in.

"Go sleep" He ordered.

"Yes sir," you said, gathering your shit and leaving the room.

It didn't take a genius to see how tired you really were, beating yourself up in your mind all night. Finding the bed Ghost had slept in you collapsed and fell asleep in seconds. Not even bothering with the blankets. But it didn't matter because you were so deep in sleep that a bomb could have gone off and you would have slept through it.

Regardless of how tired you were, waking up in a place that you weren't supposed to be scary. Opening your eyes in a flash, and frantically looking around. Seeing Ghost driving the truck you were in, you relaxed a little.

"Where are we?" you asked in a scratchy voice.

"Back road, thirty minutes from base" Ghost replied, in a calm tone.

"How long was I out?"

"Only six hours, but I was trying not to wake you." he said, sparing you a few looks.

"Why not just wake me up? Be easier than carrying dead weight." you said, starting to feel more awake with a stretch.

"You needed rest." Ghost said, but secretly he knew something you didn't know about your sleeping habits.

When he picked you up to put you in the vehicle, you weren't dead weight, you were very clingy weight. Almost immediately wrapping your arms around his neck, not wanting to let go even after you were finally buckled in. But he wouldn't tell you, locking that memory in a vault for him to enjoy.

Nodding in response, but not liking the answer you tried to change the subject.

"So, what's happening?" you questioned.

"Managed to get in contact with Price, they secured what they needed and not casualties on our side. He was relieved to hear we were well though." Ghost responded.

"Ok, good to know."

The air went dead, neither one of you willing to break to silence. You were still trying to stay quiet, so you started picking at your nail beds.

"What, no comments to make over there?" Ghost finally managed after a few minutes.

"About what?" you asked, noting that Ghost saw you were acting differently.

"Anything, the weather, asking what we are doing next, fuck even something about how my mask is pointless from an optical perspective. Just something, you're always chatty." He said, frustrated because he wanted to hear your lighthearted voice ring through the truck.

"What if I just don't want to talk?" you asked, looking over, meeting his eyes for only a moment.

"You're making a bad habit of lying to me when it comes to you."

"I'm not lying" you bit back, starting to get snappy.

"Then what is your reason?" he pushed, not backing away from a little bark.

Looking through the window you quieted down and managed a response, but not one you wanted to give.

". . .My mouth makes me a liability, it can get me in trouble, and it did. I'm not exactly ready to go looking for more issues."

"That's what this is about? Seriously?" Ghost asked, almost sounding relieved that it wasn't something worse.

"Yeah" you said, feeling small because of his reaction.

"I was reminding you of your place, not telling you to shut up."

"You're still my superior sir, I shouldn't run my mouth, it's disrespectful." you tried to defend. Knowing full well it was a terrible defense at best.

" You know damn well that's bullshit. We are on a team; I need everyone at one hundred percent. I know for a fact when you aren't talking, you're mentally tearing yourself apart. That can't happen in the field." Ghost explained.

"How . . . Soap that mother fucker" you said, hearing your own words against you. Only telling Soap that when you're quiet you're usually not doing good on the inside.

"Don't blame him, I would have gotten that information eventually."

"Why do you even care?" you asked, managing to look back over at your L.T.

"Do I need to repeat myself?" he asked, giving you another glance.

"No, you need me at the top of my game in the field."

"There you go" he said, almost in a protective tone like a father might say it to his kids.

"Then what do you want to do about it?" you asked, knowing Ghost probably wouldn't go for what you actually needed.

"I'm not in your head, what do you need?"

"Ghost, I can't ask those things of you" you said, looking to your lap.

"Do I have to order you?" he asked with a firmer tone.

"You really want to know?"

"Jesus, just spit it out."

"Pull over" you said, knowing it was pushing an order.

Ghost just nodded and did as you asked. Now stopped he gave you his full attention. Taking a deep breath, you told him.

"I need to hear you say that you don't hate me . . . and a hug."

You met his gaze and saw something in his eyes, some sort of understanding, and not a single ounce of rejection. Even still you felt the need to walk back your words.

"I can go to Soap if you don't want to," you said.

"No, it wouldn't mean as much from him."

Only managing to hum in agreement with the man. Looking back to his eyes he spoke.

"Y/N, I do not hate you . . . I actually quite enjoy your company." Ghost spoke, letting the British slip through a little more than usual.

His words caused tears to well in your eyes, never spilling over, but noticeably there.

"Thank you"

"Now get out of this vehicle and come get your hug." he said with warm eyes.

Practically jumping out of the truck you ran over to Ghost's side, where he stood, towering over you. Not even waiting for a confirmation that you could touch him, you leaped up, giving him a koala hug. Ghost was shocked but he had found his hands under your butt as you clung to him.

"Ok there, you Koala we need to get back on the road" Ghost teased, before letting you drop back to the ground.

"Yes sir!" you responded suddenly feeling so many different emotions.

Back on your game, you leaped into the truck with a smile on your face.

"Feeling better?" he asked after you were driving again.

"Much, thanks again Ghost."

"You know you can come to me, right? It doesn't just have to be Soap" he said, glancing in your direction again.

Ghost was watching you, he didn't usually keep looking over. Normally he would just drive, but you could see that something was different. So, when you responded you tried to match the weird vibe, he was giving off.

"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind . . . you know the mask isn't a bad thing, even if it isn't practical."

Taking a moment to let your words sink in a little, Ghost responded.

"You never wonder what's under it?"

"I never said that, but I figure it has to do with your issues, just like I have mine. Regardless, it's still a version of you . . . I still get to know a piece of you." you finished off quieter than you started, but Ghost heard you.

"That's a nice way to think of it," he said, soothingly.

You hummed in agreement and turned to the window, looking out to see a sunny, cloudless sky.

"You know, the sun is nice, but the sky is much prettier with clouds." You said, not meaning for it to be deep, but Ghost held your words close to his heart.

"Sounds like a good motto for life," he said.

"I suppose it is," you agreed with a smile.

The rest of the drive back to base was quiet aside from your little comments. It was nice, for both of you. So, when the base finally came into view you couldn't help but be a little sad you won't be able to spend more time with the man.

Sadly, you couldn't stop time, so you climbed out of the truck and greeted the rest of the team with a smile. Ghost seemed to disappear the second you didn't have an eye on him. Probably off to his room. But that was ok, you were happy with the small moment you shared in the privacy of that vehicle. Only hoping you would have the chance to see more of him in the future.

[thewulf]

Authority Thing || Pete "Maverick" Mitchell

Summary: Request - Hi can you write a request about Maverick x a shy pilot reader and make it fluffy. Like Maverick pulls reader out of her shell?

A/N: Kinda made this a shy pilot because she’s crushing on him not because she’s shy in general. Also turned out way more angsty than I was planning but it’s still super fluffy! Hope you still enjoy :)

Pairing: Pete "Maverick" Mitchell x Y/N (2022 Version)

Word Count: 3.7k +

Edited again 3/11/24 after finding lots of issues - sorry!

He knew from the moment he spotted you in the back of the classroom on that very first day he was a goner. Physically, you were perfect. Your hair framed your face perfectly, your eyes reflected the sunshine in a way he’d never seen, your smile was truly infectious, you were perfect in all the right places.

Mentally, you were a challenge for him. You were shy. So quiet. He couldn’t seem to get through to you either. You were close. So damn close to taking that next step. But it’s like you were afraid. You were scared to fail. You were an exceptional pilot. Right on par with Hangman. You were good enough to block him out and take him down. You were able to prove that you were the best of the literal best. But something was stopping you.

You were never afraid to challenge your classmates. He got a kick out of it when you’d snap back at Hangman with the venom dripping in your voice. You were beyond intimidating when you needed to be. You didn’t need to talk shit because your flying proved how good you really were. You knew you were good. You knew you were great. You also knew your limits. You knew you needed to become exceptional. There was something more for you to give. You just had to find it first.

But Pete, Maverick, Mitchell? Maverick terrified you, in the best way. He was a legend. Literally never lost. Almost had five live air kills… you could go on and on about him. Ad to find out he was your instructor for the next six or so weeks? You knew you were toast. Absolute toast. Then you actually laid eyes on the Captain, and you wish you could’ve just exploded right there on the spot. He was handsome. So, fucking handsome. You locked eyes with him for only seconds on that first day of class before your turned away. You didn’t look back to him at all that class. Too terrified you’d make a damn fool of yourself.

So, you kept it short with him. Quick ‘Yes’s and No’s’. You’d often just take his corrections without fighting back. It confused him. You were so damn different with him than anybody else. You’d even warmed up to Cyclone, the Admiral for God’s sake. He saw you walking, talking, and laughing with him on your way to lunch one day. He didn’t have a clue as to why you were so shy around him. Why you’d rather run in the opposite direction than have to pass him in the hallway. It’d only been two weeks and it was driving him mad. He needed to talk with you. Was it something he did?

He would he decided. At the end of your next classroom session. One way or another he’d get some answers out of you. He needed to know if he did something wrong. It was gnawing at the back of his head.

“Birdie, if you don’t mind. Stay back for a second?” You looked at Bob who just shrugged, unsure of what your instructor could have wanted. You packed up slowly letting everybody trickle out before walking towards the front of the classroom.

Birdie. Your callsign. You had a love and hate relationship with it. You’d always joked that you felt like a bird in the sky when you were in training to become a pilot. Your friends promptly started calling you Birdie and it just stuck. You kind of wished you had a more fun story to tell other than the boring one of how you got your callsign. But alas, you didn’t. It was simple. Cute. Basic. Kind of like you. You’d never seen yourself as anything but ordinary. Just Y/N. Good at her job Y/N.

“Captain.” You let out a shaky breath. He made you nervous. So damn nervous. People of authority always did. And then he looked like that on top of it? Forget it. You were a goner. It wasn’t right to be thinking such unsavory thoughts about your damn instructor in your head. It made you act like a fucking weirdo in front of him. Case and point. You couldn’t even look him in the eyes.

“Good job up there today. Four for four.” You looked up from where you standing just quickly enough to see him staring right at you. Why’d he have to be so handsome? It was an unfair game that was suddenly being played against you.

“Thank you.” A small smile crept to your face hearing the compliment. It felt good. A small praise from the man giving you a small bit of confidence to look up to him but give him no more.

He nodded walking down to you, standing across from you. Your heart rate picked up quickly feeling his presence right there. Right in front of you. Oh, how you’ve avoided this situation masterfully. Now look where you were. Stuck alone in the classroom with him right there in front of you. What could possibly go wrong?

He waited until you looked at him to continue. He knew curiosity would get the better of you sooner or later. He was right. After thirty seconds of silence, you looked up.

He smiled seeing your doe-eyed expression. He shouldn’t feel this way about you. He shouldn’t want to brush the strand of hair that fell out of your bun away from your face. He shouldn’t want to run a hand along your back. He shouldn’t want to fucking kiss you senseless. But he wanted it. He wanted it all and more. So much more. What the hell was wrong with him? You were so young. So lively. Had so much to look forward too. Hell, you even had a shot of becoming an admiral if you had the drive to do it.

“Sir?” You asked, waiting on his question. His reason for holding you back.

He hummed delaying a second, “Everything alright?”

Nodding quickly your head turned up to him again, “Yeah, why wouldn’t it be?”

He shrugged looking away for a moment. Giving you a second of reprieve from his gaze. Everything about the man was commanding. Everything, “No reason. You just seem to be a bit fidgety?”

What the hell was he going on about? You weren’t acting any different than you had been prior, “I do?” Of course, you were fucking fidgety. He was less than a foot from you not having a damn clue what he was doing to you. You could smell him. He smelled better than you imagined. Leather, oil, and cedar all mixed together. Way too good for a day instructing on base.

“Did I do something?” He spit it out. Well, it was out in the open now. It’s not like he could take it back. It sounded so terribly insecure when he spoke it out loud.

You shook your head, “No, not at all Captain.” Your heart started racing as he gave you a once over.

“Then what is it Lieutenant?” He asked with all the calmness in the world.

Your head was swimming. Swimming with thousands, millions of thoughts, “Sir?” Play dumb. That was always the easiest route to go.

“Why can’t you look me in the eye Y/N?” Why’d he have to use your name like that? It got your dumb hear racing faster than even you were used to.

Your eyes snapped to his. That was not the question you were expecting, “You… Authority makes me nervous.” You spoke quietly deciding to keep your eyes locked in on his. Not letting his statement completely reign true.

He grinned a wicked look before a much more innocent one came to face, you didn’t miss it though, “I make you nervous?”

You said nothing at first, nodding quickly in agreement instead, “Authority.” It was merely a whisper.

Mav’s face cracked into a simper while he studied your features, “There’s nothing to be nervous about.”

You didn’t move your head, but your eyes moved to look to him, “I suppose that’s easier said than realized.” You admitted.

He stepped forward. Probably crossing a line, he shouldn’t have. But he couldn’t stand it. Why were you comfortable with everybody else but him, “What can I do then?”

You cocked your head to the side, “What do you mean Mav?” You asked so softly he thought his knees were going to buckle right then and there. You said his name so sweetly it took him off guard. He really should just let you go. This was a bad idea. He shouldn’t be pressing you like this. He knew better than to. But he didn’t want to. He wanted to press on. Dig a little deeper. See you a little bit better. He was intrigued.

“Is there anything I can do to make you less nervous?”

You laughed softly. Get ugly? Stop looking like that? Stop being so hot in a flight suit? Stop being my flight instructor? “Afraid not Captain.” You sat back on the desk knowing this was likely not going to be over soon.

He took a seat next to you, “Why not?”

You shrugged, “It’s the authority thing. Call it trauma.” You joked.

He smiled along with you, “So, say I wasn’t your instructor…”

Cutting him off quickly you felt your blood run cold, “You’re not going to kick me off the squadron are you?” your panicked look made him feel awful

He shook his head quickly, “No, no never. It’s a hypothetical.”

You sighed softly, “Sorry.” You felt an overwhelming amount of embarrassment consume you. You’d worked so hard to get to where you are that even a little bit of an inkling of a threat sent you into overthinking mode. You weren’t proud of it by any means. It was something you were working on.

“It’s fine.” He smiled feeling your tension just radiate off your body. He seemed to pick up on anything relating to you. Again, he had to wonder. What the hell was wrong with him?

“Would you be as nervous around me if I wasn’t your instructor?” He quirked up a brow all too curious to hear your answer.

You laughed softly, “Yes, I would.” It was starting to become easier to talk to him. But he still intimidated the hell out of you. You hadn’t a clue how to navigate your superior being hot as hell. Normally they were old dudes who had kids your age. Not Maverick.

He huffed in almost frustration. He appreciated thar you were being honest with him, but he wasn’t sure what it was about him, “But why?”

You shrugged, “Still an authority, Captain.”

He placed a hand a little too close to yours, “You seemed just fine with Cyclone earlier.” He leaned in almost challenging you. He loved talking to you, but this conversation had gone of for too long now. Curiosity was literally killing the cat.

You nodded along with him, “Well yeah, that’s different.”

He looked at you incredulously, “How?”

It slipped out before you really meant to say it, “He’s married.” And then it was out there. It didn’t take Pete long to put two and two together. You were basically screaming that he was off limits and that Pete wasn’t. You didn’t mean to all but admit it but here you were. Heart hammering in your chest.

“I mean. He’s established. He’s not my direct authority. You know what I mean?” Even you didn’t know what you meant. You were caught red handed. Hand in the cookie jar. Damn. It is what it is now.

Mav shook his head with a lopsided grin, “I think I know exactly what you mean Y/N.” He also knew you’d never outright admit it either. He realized just how damn weird the whole thing was for you as well. He was your superior. You couldn’t cross that line either. Not unless you knew for sure that it was alright. The game the both of you were playing was dangerous. Very dangerous.

Thick tension hung in the air. You hadn’t a clue what to say to your instructor after accidentally telling him the real reason he made you so nervous. Not outright spilling the truth but putting making it rather obvious in your wake instead.

“I should get going.” You stood from the table you were sitting on.

He mimicked your actions, “Should you?”

Nodding your head you gave him a flash of a smile, “Yeah, long day tomorrow. You said so yourself. Right?” Raising your eyebrows, you knew you had him there.

His otherworldly smile lit up his face. God, he was so handsome. That just wasn’t fair.

“Right. Sleep well Y/N. See you in the morning.”

“You too Pete.” You weren’t sure why you used his first name, but it felt right. Felt like a step you wanted to take for yourself.

You didn’t catch the furious blush that rose to his cheeks at that. He knew he needed to pull back immediately, or he’d get himself, or you, in trouble. He couldn’t be blushing around Cyclone when you came around. He’d just have to ignore it. He could do that. Or so he thought he could.

Maverick must have gotten in your head. The next day was... less than stellar. You had a bad day. A very bad day. You landed without a single victory. With Rooster shooting you down for the second time that afternoon.

Sitting in the jet cockpit of the hangar you’d pulled your helmet off without much thought and just sat there. Thinking. You were fine yesterday. What the hell happened today? You’d been shot down five times. Twice by Hangman, twice by Rooster and once by Phoenix. You weren’t even close to shooting them down.

You were too eager with you grip making dumb rookie mistakes. Mistakes that’d have you shot down in an instant up in the air. All of them were able to see it and exploit it. A bad day. That’s all it was. It didn’t make you a bad pilot. Not in the slightest. You had to remember that. Drop today and remember how good you really were.

“Are you going to come down Lieutenant?” That voice broke you from the thoughts that were seemingly tormenting you in the cockpit. The ones that kept seeming to tell you that you weren’t good enough. You might’ve been the best at your home base but not here. No. You were average amongst the best.

Your eyes snapped open. Pete? What was he doing down there? He hardly came out here after training, “Yeah.” You answered quickly not wanting to leave him waiting. He wasn't one for patience, “Just thinking.” You knew you needed an excuse or he would press. No matter how lame it may be. But it wasn’t a lie. You really were just thinking.

He didn’t say a word as you came down the ladder. When you got a good look at him he almost looked, angry? His lips were drawn in a thin line. He had a hard time looking at you. Eyebrows stitched too close together for him to be in a good mood.

“What the hell was that?” His normally chipper tone had vanished. He sounded too much like an instructor now. He didn’t even sound like the Maverick you had gotten to know. No, a drill sergeant instead. He noticed your expression change as you realized this wasn’t going to be a fun conversation.

He felt bad doing such a 180 on you like that. But he had to, for your sake. Or so he thought.

“I’m not sure sir… I...” You stammered trying to come up with something. He’d already made you nervous and now this? You were a blubbering mess. Sure to look like the fool of a woman you knew they were likely expecting of you. See, the men could make mistakes. You couldn't. Women couldn't.

“Not a single kill today Lieutenant?” His voice stayed icy as you stood there forward like he was a drill Sargant. It suddenly felt like you were back in basic training all over again.

You looked down in what felt like shame, “No, Captain.” The voice that came out of you sounded weak. Likely because you felt weak. You didn’t feel like you were good enough to be here. Like all those kills you got against Hangman and Rooster prior to this day was just all just luck. Straight luck. Rationally, you knew better. You knew how good of pilot you were. You wouldn’t be good enough to get here. But your own mind was playing tricks on you. Planting seeds that should’ve never been dug.

He pressed further not seeing that he was beginning to push you past your breaking point. Further than even you would have expected from him. Your head was already coming down too hard on yourself. His words only seemed to dig that dagger in a little further that drove the final nail in the coffin of your confidence.

“What’s the problem then Lieutenant?” He stepped closer, challenging you. You weren’t in the right headspace for this. Not in the slightest.

You shook your head slowly, “I don’t know Mav.” Looking down at your boots you couldn’t bear to look up at his disappointed expression. You were just trying to hold back the tears at this point.

“You don’t know?” He sounded patronizing as if he was talking to a toddler.

“I…no.” Your voice was too shaky, so you stopped. Collect yourself. You could do this. You’ve done this hundreds of times before.

He must’ve not noticed the tears that were threatening to spill over as you looked up at him finally, “I can’t put somebody on a team who doesn't know what's going on. I need somebody who knows what they do wrong!" His voice grew from anger to frustration as he spoke. Yet he failed to see your utterly devastated gaze as he went on and on about things you had already known. Each word felt like a knife as he continued on, "You won't get a second chance on this mission. If you get shot down you're as good as dead."

Your heart ran cold, feeling as though it was shattering into a million pieces right then and there, “You don’t think I know that sir?” Your voice nearly broke as it wobbled through trying to finish the sentence.

He’d certainly noticed it then as his eyes finally found your tear stained cheeks. He usually knew how hard he could push. He could usually push you a whole lot harder, but he’d gone too far today. He knew when he heard that unusual waver in your voice.

He hadn't planned it but he knew he needed to back off, “It’s a bad day. It happens. Shake it off Birdie." The words come out of his mouth so fast he was sure you felt like you were getting whiplash from his hot and cold behavior. One moment he was nearly flirting with you then the next he scolding you.

He didn’t mean it. Not a bit of it. He didn’t even like being an asshole to Hangman, although it was fun sometimes. Being one to you made him feel awful. But he had to. He wasn't kidding when he said you didn't get second chances out there.

You shook your head, “I’ll do better tomorrow. I don’t know…”

He cut you off by placing a gentle hand on your shoulder. He hadn’t noticed how wound up about the day you had already been. He didn’t mean to push you further. He was just trying to be the instructor you needed to succeed on this mission that didn't have amazing outcomes.

This was the opposite of being tough on you though, “It’s fine Y/N. Go home. Read a book or watch some TV. Come back tomorrow. You’ll be just fine.”

You looked at his hand on his shoulder before looking at him, giving him a curt nod, “Sure. I’ll see you tomorrow.” You turned to walk away, brushing the tears away from your eyes.

Before you could walk through the locker room door you tuned back to him. After today you weren't sure if you even deserved the consideration,“You shouldn’t pick me.” You said so quiet you weren’t even sure if he heard it.

By the way he walked right over he must have. He grabbed your arm suddenly, not forcefully by any means, “Don’t say that. Why would you say that?” He genuinely felt awful for pushing too hard now. This didn't seem like you. You were headstrong. Stronger than even he seemed.

You looked down almost ashamed to admit it to him, “Because… because I’m not good enough sir. You saw me out there today. I'm as good as dead.” You were supposed to be the best of the best, but you hardly felt like it today. You were getting your ass handed to you left and right. Hangman was laying it on thick today too. He did that whenever he got the chance.

The day started bad when Rooster knocked you out almost immediately. And only got worse on subsequent runs. You were zero for four by the time you went up for the last round of the day. You got in your own damn head. It happened. It happened to everyone. You knew it. Still didn’t make it sting worse when you were on your thousandth pushup for the day.

He shook his head grabbing your hand quickly, “What are you talking about? You’re one of the best pilots I’ve ever worked with. You’re a fucking menace out there Y/N.”

You shook your head, “You’re just saying that because I’m about to cry.” You wanted to believe him. Maybe any other day you’d believe him. It was a no good, very bad day for you.

He only dropped his hand from your arm to bring it to your shoulder once again, giving it a gentle squeeze, “I’m not. I’m really not. Believe it or not.” He sighed collecting his thoughts once more, “I’m sorry. Really. I only come down hard on you because I know you can handle it. But I need you to not think like that. If you do get picked I need your head screwed all the way on. It’s not your run of the mill mission and you know that. You’ve got to be all the way there. All the way present. You hear me?”He asked.

You turned your head to look up to him, “Yeah. I hear you.” Your voice was much more you, more controlled.

He didn’t quite believe you though so he continued, “You are an exceptional pilot Y/N. The rest of the squad needs you to be. Bad days happen. Don’t let that asshole get to you.”

You smiled for the first time that day. It felt good talking with him. Actually, talking and not being afraid of him. A dramatic shift from that of moments ago, “You got it. Thanks Mav.” You wanted to thank him as a friend. Maybe a potential suitor. Not as a student. Not as a subordinate. But as a person.

He smiled for the first time that day as well. He had a long way yet to go with you, but it was a start. Something. He knew one thing that was sure. He was excited to get this damn mission over with. He didn’t want to be your superior anymore. He wanted to be your co-worker. The person you turned and laughed with whenever the most outrageous orders were given. He wanted to get there, was determined to get there.

“Sure thing, Y/N.” He let his hand fall, “See you at the Hard Deck tonight?” He asked curiously.

“You’re coming?” You’d seen him there the first night. You’d thought he was the most handsome thing in the bar. Hangman did not. Kept giving you shit for giving the ‘old man’ eyes. Whatever. You hadn’t seen him at the bar sense that night though. But he knew you guys went every Thursday. He listened.

“Maybe.”

You smiled once more, “You should. It’d be fun to see you kick Hangman’s ass in trivia.”

He laughed, a genuine one, one he hadn’t felt in quite some time, “How do you know I’m any good at trivia?”

You shrugged, “Have a feeling. Hope to see you tonight Pete.” The wink you sent him sent butterflies aflame throughout your body. Where in the hell did that confidence come from?

Pete legs went to jelly for a second as he watched you walk away. That you would. He was sure of it.

Permanent Taglist (Message me or comment below if you want to be added!): @loving-and-dreaming @kmc1989 @memeorydotcom @matisse556 @dempy

[oppositeslut]

Heya Birdy! Coming right back at you with a headcanon ask :D

What are your favorite oppositeshipping headcanons?

Cooks ily any chance to talk about oppositeshipping you KNOW I will take it

ok I have like SO many because they are literally the world to me I think about them 24/7

Kai LOVES playing video games with Zane, its always a 50/50 chance of whether Kai will win or not because sometimes Zane is able to figure out the game and beat Kai but other times Kais trash talk gets to Zane sometimes and confuses him so bad Kai is able to get the upper hand (yes I thought of this after s2 pt1 them playing video games was my everything)

Sometimes after a bad mission or a nightmare they go on walks together. It helps calm both of them down and when they go at night they see the stars and point out what they look like (Kai always makes stuff up and Zane always finds it endearing even if he's completely wrong)

Kai dresses in the most extravagant clothes and Zane dresses like a librarian so literally anytime they go somewhere not on ninja official business Kai makes Zane match with him. Kai LOVES to match with zane

For their anniversary Zane got Kai and him matching necklaces

something like this and neither one of them EVER takes it off. When things look hard or a mission looks like they might not make it, they grab the necklace and fight like hell so they can get back to each other

They both know their strengths and weaknesses when they fight and when they get paired up together so when they fight together it's like a fiery storm. They fight very well together

That's all I'll give you for now... here's some of my fav images of them

Guys I fucking love my oppo ❤️❤️❤️

[nerdalmighty]

BG3 Tag Game!

I was tagged by @khywren!!! Thank you!!!!!!

I'm going to tag @vanilkaplays @okthisway @maladaptive-menace @riddlerosehearts @starkspi and anyone else who wants to play along!

Favorite romance: It will surprise no one to know that it's Astarion. I find his backstory so incredibly interesting and I love his dumbass personality. At the end of the day, he just wants to do whatever is the most hilarious and I adore that. I especially love how soft he gets when you get together in Act 2. I could go on and on but I'll never be able to fully articulate my love for him.

Favorite class to play: Bard! I love that they're really the jack of all trades and are pretty good at everything, including spells and sword fighting. Persuasion and deception are SO helpful in this game, plus playing music to distract crowds and cause shenanigans in Baldur's Gate is wonderful.

Favorite NPC: I think Raphael. While yeah he absolutely SUCKS, I'm obsessed with his obsession with his own voice. He's a thespian, he's a freak, he's an idiot. I love it. But yes, I did kill his ass.

Favorite song off the soundtrack: Probably the Harpy Song. I listen to it a lot in my spare time, especially when I'm working on a specific fic I'm attempting to write. I'm a big fan of haunting melodies and, unsurprisingly, the concept of hypnotizing music.

Tell us a little about your Tav: I wrote a pretty long post about her here, but my Tav is named Birdie and she's a bard who was born and raised at the Water Queen's House. Previous iterations of her had her as a siren (hence the deep love of the Harpy Song), but I'm still not 100% sure if this version of her is. Basically, she's a mermaid ass goof whose main gang of idiots include Astarion, Gale, and Shadowheart. Chaos often ensues.

Something you wish was in the game: I know this game is huge. I know there's probably stuff people haven't even discovered yet. But god would I love some more camp animations. More interactions between the companions AT camp. Cut scenes where there should probably be cut scenes (The second time Astarion drinks your blood, Wyll celebrating the defeat of Ansur, etc). I really really love this game, but I'd love to hang out with my friends EVEN MORE.

Do you create fanworks? Share something with us: Oh boy I'm TRYING. I've never really written fanfiction before but the stupid vampire has inspired me to do so. I'm in the process of writing two different fics (one multi-chapter, one one-shot on the longer side) and am having a blast but I'm not sure if/when I'll post them. I've noticed my writing style is very similar to the way I write scripts, which is what I went to college for, so they're full of dialogue and quick, dumb banter. It might not be for everyone, but I'm having The Most Fun! Let me know if you'd maybe want to see more? Here's a silly excerpt from the one-shot (she may or may not get smutty later on 👀):

There was no sign of the vampire, save for an open hatch beneath the stone of the tower leading into what you presumed was a cellar of sorts. Off to the side was a discarded set of Thieves’ Tools. Yup, that’ll be him.

Rolling your eyes affectionately, you began to descend into the basement below. 

Before you could even make it to the bottom, however, you heard Astarion’s voice tinged with annoyance. “Don’t bother, darling. I was just coming back up.”

You paused on the ladder and looked down at him. “That bad?”

“Eh, a few coins, some food. Nothing worth risking one’s life over. Foolish gnome.”

“Shame,” you pouted down at him, not an ounce of real sympathy behind the word.

He smirked as he met your eye. “Go,” he said, indicating you should climb back up the ladder. “There was a rather large amount of smoke powder though. That could be fun.”

When you emerged back into the early evening air, you turned to help Astarion out. “Maybe you can blow up a quaint little gnomish village.”

Astarion’s eyes glittered with delight. “Oh, do you think there’s one around here? That would be- Oh. You’re joking.”

You nodded.

“Gods, you’re no fun.” He sighed dramatically and then started back towards the Blighted Village proper. 

You scoffed in mock offense. “I’m a lot of fun!”

Astarion tsked. “If you have to say you’re a lot of fun, odds are, you’re lying to yourself.” He shot a challenging half smile at you from over his shoulder.

“How dare you,” you laughed.

“Such a pity, too,” he went on. “Aren’t bards supposed to be entertaining?”

You made a sound of agony, which had Astarion fully turning back to look at you. You threw a hand to your heart and staggered towards him. “You wound me, Astarion. Look upon me with pity and remember me fondly!” You set an arm on his shoulder and let your body weight go, as if collapsing from a killing blow. 

Astarion was quick to catch you under your arms. He made a show of groaning about how heavy you were now that your body had gone completely limp. After you’d hung loosely from his grip for a few seconds, he finally yielded. “Alright, enough.” 

You resumed control of your body and stood up straight, a smug look on your face. “I’m fun.”

“Dramatic.”

“Theatrical.”

“Annoying.”

“Endearing.”

“Loud.”

“Enthusiastic-”

Just then, a loud howl came from a barn a little ways off. 

You and Astarion eyed each other.

“Was that you?” Astarion asked.

“‘Was that me?!’ I’m not THAT loud.”

“Could have fooled me.”

You rolled your eyes. “Come on.” You started in a light jog towards the barn.

Astarion groaned. “You can’t be serious.” He caught up with you easily. “Haven’t we done enough heroing for today?”

You looked at him thoughtfully. “One more act of heroism probably won’t kill you.”

“It might!”

“Oh, now who’s being dramatic?” You came to a stop at the double doors.

“I-” Astarion floundered, then pursed his lips and crossed his arms.

“That’s what I thought.”

[belladonnasmenagerie]

SFW: Slashers reactions to you being a small unassumingly strong woman: Pt 1

Slashers included is Bo, Vincent, (NBC) Hannibal, (NBC) Will, Thomas

I have to make a pt 2 for Will, Thomas and Jason lol this one ran a little longer than expected XD

Requested by @klerns-birdie

Enjoy!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~🎃~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Epilogue: All your life you knew you were stronger than others, even as a kid it was very apparent when you played around with other kids or went to school, parents having to be called a couple times for broken property. But over time you were able to control the strength you had but that didn’t help with your social life.

As you grew up names had been thrown like ‘freak’ or ‘monster’ even though you were so sweet to everyone. Eventually you stopped trying to become friends with others due to your strength but as you got out of high school it became easier, having the freedom to travel and see new things had opened you up to so much. Even though you still were insecure about your strength you didn’t hate it you were proud of yourself for how amazingly you managed it.

Then one day you met him and it felt like love at first sight….

Vincent

* Vincent is such a calm man in my perspective, yes he’s a brutal murderer but compared to Bo he’s a lot lot calmer

* He loves you unconditionally no matter what, he feels like he’s finally found someone who understands him. But on the same note he wants to protect you and acre for you like your a porcelain doll that would break if anything happened to you

* So Imagine the look on his face when he’s trying to subdue a victim in the house and he sees you across the room with wide eyes.

* He’s terrified now, terrified the victim will see you and go after you, he puts all his night into trying to get this victim to the ground but it seemed like no such luck was happening

* He could feel his heart racing, the only thing on his mind being you, he wouldn’t forgive himself if you got hurt

* That’s when the sudden sound of shattering your wood and the victim going limp shocked him from his thoughts

* Watching as the body dropped to the floor he finally looked up at you seeing what appeared to be the coffee table, or what was left of it, in your tiny hands

* Looking at you with wide eyes you could tell what he was already thinking so you gave him a sheepish grin

* “So… I was going to tell you”

* After that ( and after getting rid of the body) you two sat down and had a long talk, expressing to him how scared you were to tell him and how everybody thought you were just some freak

* He would cup your cheeks assuring you he didn’t think of you that way and that he knows exactly how you feel, you two would share a kiss and feel accepted by this man you considered your soulmate

Bo

* Bo on the other hand would be a different scenario, he’s a rough man with an even tougher exterior so it’s hard to pinpoint how he feels sometimes

* But he loved and respected you, wanting you to be by his side at all time to take care of you

* So here you were sitting in the gas station swinging your legs as you hummed, just waiting for Bo to finish up down stairs

* That’s when you heard the bell to the door jingle as it opened, in shock you jumped off the counter as you saw a beat up larger man frantically looking around.

* Then he saw you, a tiny little thing just standing in shock staring at him. Without thinking a second thought he grabbed your upper arm, that sent you into fight or flight mode

* “Get off me!” You yelled grabbing a tire iron from the counter with your other hand

* “Shut up!” The victim scolded trying to tug you away

* “I said get the fuck off me!” You yelled swinging the tire iron across his head

* The sudden hit with such a force knocked the guy away from you as he stumbled, turning around to you all he saw was a flash of blue from your shirt as you jumped on him

* Bo frantically burst through the basement door and into the main lobby after hearing your yells

* “Y/n! What’s..” but before he could finish Bo had to do a double take

* Seeing you on your knees covered in blood in front of the man bludgeoned to death by a tire iron

* Panting you looked over at Bo “I can explain.”

* Bo scoffed with a smile “No need darlin’” he walks up to you

* “Looks like I don’t have to keep an eye on you.” He helps you up “looks like you can handle this stuff yourself”

* You chuckle but eventually after everything is cleaned up you sit down and explain everything to him

* He of course makes small jokes but the two of you laugh them off, but he accepts you for who you are and jokes that you’ll be his new muscle around town

Hannibal (NBC)

* Hannibal is a very observant man, he doesn’t like to be caught off guard or have anything slip, especially with his reputation.

* So when the two of you started to live together he noticed small things you would do that seemed just a little bit off

* Like when he would buy groceries you would grab a heavy bag or box and swear it’s the lighter one, trying to throw him off, but Hannibal is smarter than that

* He won’t bring anything up until you were ready to talk about it though, he wanted you to be the one to say anything

* You knew about his murderous tendencies and his cannibalism but for some reason you didn’t care when you really knew you should

* Then one night at dinner you sat at the table twiddling your thumbs as the nagging urge to say something about your strength kept itching in the back of your mind

* Hannibal was in the kitchen making the entires leaving you to think alone in the dining room

* You kept fighting with yourself, knowing if you told him he wouldn’t mind and would actual accept you because he loved you but the other side argued back that he wouldn’t he’d call you a freak and want nothing to do with you

* That part made your eyes tear up, you loved Hannibal he was always so sweet and endearing towards you, he even took you out on shopping sprees and to nice restaurants for date nights.

* The tears kept welling though with thought of rejection now becoming the main thought on your mind.

* Hearing the kitchen door open to the dining room you tried to wipe the small tears away.

* “Alright dinner is served. Tonight we have..” Hannibal started placing your plate down first but he stopped his talking when he saw your wet eyes

* Concern crossed his features, placing his plate down so he could crouch next to you

* “Oh, dear what’s the matter?” He asked turning you in your chair to face him but you wouldn’t look at him

* Cupping your cheeks he gently pulled your face up “Come on darling, you can talk to me.”

* You sniffled “I-I..” then everything spilled out telling him about your fears of him rejecting you and the fact your really strong for a woman like yourself

* And soon you started to babble which made Hannibal chuckle in turn made you angry

* “Why are you laughing!” You snapped

* “My love, I’ve known for a while about your strength you haven’t been very good about hiding it you know.”

* You blinked a couple times as he wiped some tears away “y-you knew?”

* “Of course dear, now why don’t you stop crying and thinking that I would judge you for something so minuscule.” He placed his hands on your cheeks again “I love you just for who you are.”

* A smile brightened up your features as Hannibal leaned in for a quick but loving kiss

* “Now, how about we have some dinner then we can do whatever you want.”

* You nodded turning in your chair, stomach fluttering with how much this man loved you

[the-kr8tor]

heheh angst time- and yes, I did mean I got my ass whooped yesterday aha Daily Hobie HC! I feel like one of his worst fears is having to fight you. Allow me to set up the mood >:) Imagine that you've been taken away from him while Hobie was on a mission. Gone, missing. His guts twist at the sight of your empty side of the bed, tears welling as he constantly has to face the fact he lost you. Then all of a sudden- you're back. As soon as he sees you again, coming through the door, Hobie immediately runs towards you, hugging you, murmuring about how he loves you, how he'll never let you go, how he missed you so much. Time passes, and something's off. Your hugs were cold instead of warm, and your hands were tentative against his skin. Your nails dragging against his skin stung more than it soothed. Even your smile seemed too sweet to be true, with your wide eyes and the eerie, subtle shakes of your pupil. Even the colors of your eyes seemed different, as if it were mixed with a singular drop of another completely opposite color. You've given him multiple scares in the night, with how you seemed to 'get water', and have him wake up to you staring at him. Hobie no longer even wakes up to your warm smile or teasing morning kisses. Instead, it's cold, as you simply just get out of bed and get ready, like you weren't with him at all. He gives you the benefit of the doubt, thinking that maybe something happened while you went missing for you to act oddly, and that you just need space. However, all changes when, as swinging around as Spider-Man on his patrols, you attack, managing to cut him out of the air and crashing into the ground with a swift throw of a knife. Your pupils are entirely glowing an eerie gold, a toothy smile stretching itself on your face. Struck with fear, he tries to swing away, but you simply just keep toying with him. Hobie doesn't understand what had happened, even trying to get close at one point but now blood seeps from his chest. The entire scene he refused to fight you, not wanting to hurt you, even if you seemed to intent on killing you. He knows it's not you. You would never act like this. Whatever was happening wasn't on your behalf. Even as you finally grab ahold of him, thrashing him into every hard surface you could, winding him multiple times as the multitude of bruises and cuts send jolts down his spine. He still doesn't fight back, instead just struggling to try and escape. Even as he knows it's the end. Seeing the shining weapon raised above your head, directed straight to his heart, he doesn't fight back. He's too exhausted. Too pained. Too..in love. "I love you, my lil birdie. An' I will keep lovin' you in every universe." (My sad attempt at a cockney accent please forgive me) "Hobes..hey, Hobieee...Hobart Larry Brown! Wake up!" Aaaanywaysss...you're way too kind, I don't think I could write a fully cyberpunk motorbike au fic.. I could try though maybe- not sure if I'd be able to do R- I may just put my sona but we'll see! Also Katy, what do you think about 'Red Spiders', for Hobie's team?:) -🐦‍⬛

No!! Who do I have to beat up?!! I'm ready to throw hands

DAILY HOBIE HC!!! Get your daily hc here!

AHHHHH CAME BACK WRONG TROPE!! YEEESSS!!!

Hmmm you got me theorizing what happened to them 🤔

Him not fighting back 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

OH THANK GOD IT'S JUST A DREAM!

Oooohh I love how red spiders are now a thing!!

[panzershrike-pretz]

*basically falls into your ask box* PRETZ I CAN'T BELIEVE I HAVEN'T ASKED YOU SOMETHING YET SORRY

okay 10, 12, 21, and 27 for the hbowar ask game!!

HI BLU!!! Hope you didn't hurt yourself with that fall! XD

10. An OC you can't get enough of?

First of fucking all: I love you guys' ocs!! Feel free to ramble about them to me, I love meeting new characters!

So, starting off with @malarkgirlypop because I absolutely fucking ADORE Emily. She is just the best and reminds me of a friend of the same name, so I just love vibing away with her! Her whole deal comung from the future and being so absolutely different from ths boys but at the same time fitting right in?? Love that

And then there's @coco-bean-1218. I LOVE OC!CLAIRE SO MUCH SHE'S SO ADORABLE!!!! I LOVE HER AND CAN'T WAIT TO READ THE FUCK OUT OF WELL BEHAVED WOMEN NEVER MAKE HISTORY!!! (also can we talk about that title??? Because I love it)

We also got @next-autopsy 's ocs. All of them but like,,,, I have a special something for Francesca. Obviously I live Birdie as well but like. Francesca resonates with me. (I ABSOLUTELY ADORE BIRDIE'S NICKNAME AND SHE REMINDS ME OF A SHRIKE OR A LONG-EARED NIGHTJAR).

Finally, yours! @xxluckystrike! YOUR OCS ARE SO COOL! I am so fucking hyped to learn more about them and eead your fics qhen u post it!!

12. Songs that you associate with certain mutuals?

Idk if I'll be able to give explanations to everyone but I'll try! Also, I use only vibes.

@malarkgirlypop - she makes me think of Set It All Free by Scarlett Johnsson, from the movie Sing! I just adore her vibes so like. Am I wrong? (Don't answer this)

@luckynumber4 - definetely makes me think of the song Everything Moves by Bronze Radio Return! I love this song so much and it brings me Lou vibes, idk why.

@xxluckystrike - you make me think of Break My Stride by Matthew Wilder! You just have this fun vibe and I love it a whole lot!

@whollyjoly - We Own The Night by The Wanted! This is such a upbeat song and I feel like it fits you a lot, but also It's Tough To Be a God from Road to El Dorado, but especifically the Annapantsu cover. Yes it's because of the cult.

@sweetxvanixlla - Biscuits by Kacey Musgraves! You give responsible(TM) vibes a lot. And this song is just adorable like you. Fight me.

@georgieluz - Curses by The Crane Wives. This song makes me think of you, deal with it :]

@land-sh - The Cult of Dionysus by The Orion Experience! Yeah, listen to it and you'll understand.

@next-autopsy - Battlecry by Mazare and Philip Strand. I CANNOT listen to it without thinking of you and Made of Glass! I love this song a lot.

@coco-bean-1218 - Come Along by Cosmo Shelldrake. This is one of my favorite songs and artists and I just HAD to choose it since you were the reason I first got into the BoB fandom!

@footprintsinthesxnd - Fly Away by TheFatRat. I was OBSSESSED with this song not long ago! And it's just so good too? Definetely makes me think of you!

27. What is your favorite moment during your time in the fandom?

That has to be the Cult thing. It started as a joke and took over my fucking life xD

Again, sorry to any mutuals I didn't include! I tried my best here, so enjoy the songs and all that! Love u guys <3

[dreamsontheirway]

Bait | Ch. 6 | S.R. x OC

Summary: Willow Brooks is a kind-hearted, but spitfire red head who treats each case with the upmost compassion and care. But when an unsub is targeting women who look just like her, she’s faced with the dilemma of acting as bait for the unsub. Spencer Reid, her boyfriend, is absolutely not keen on the idea. Warnings: violence, knife, guns Word Count: 1k

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Look at you, little birdie...

Now you're at my mercy.

-----

Luckily, Willow wasn't knocked out from the impact and she was able to lift herself up from the dirty concrete below her.

"Who are you?" Thomas' voice boomed, as he kicked her harshly in the stomach. "Did my magpie send you?"

My magpie? Willow thought, but she couldn't think straight from the pain erupting from her core.

"Answer me!" Thomas roared, and he pulled her to her feet before punching her harshly in the face.

Willow saw stars from the impact, and was completely unable to fight back at this point. She hoped to god that Spencer and the rest of the team were on their way and would arrive shortly. She felt hot, sticky liquid start to run down from her nostrils.

With what little strength she had, she tried to engage Thomas with what she knew so far.

"Thomas," she said, using his first name, attempting to personalize the situation. "It's me, your magpie. Please don't hurt me."

Confusion clouded Thomas' face at the remark, his brows furrowed, yet still angry.

"You're not Magdalene."

Magdalene... so the magpie is a woman named Magdalene?

"It is me, Thomas," Willow spoke, coughing up a small amount of blood. "Please."

She pleaded, and his grip on her loosened slightly. It was short lived.

"FBI, hands up!"

Thomas spasmed, pulling Willow's back into his front and branding a knife against her throat.

Where the hell did the knife come from? Willow thought to herself.

Spencer stood at the other end of the alleyway, his gun trained at Thomas. Although he stood confidently, Willow could see the slight shake of his hands at the sight of her being covered in blood and held against her will. The rest of the team stood guard behind him, their guns also pointed towards Thomas.

"Thomas," Spencer started, his voice containing a hint of fear. "Don't do this to Magdalene. She loves you, Thomas."

Thomas adjusted his hold on Willow, confused once again. He thought about it for a moment, considering, before pulling the knife closer to her throat once again.

"You're lying to me."

"No, Thomas, I'm not. We know that Magdalene left you, but she's back now."

"I don't believe you!" Thomas screamed, the knife starting to impress into Willow's skin. "She left me, with our son! She flew away, my magpie flew away."

Spencer considered Thomas' words, and continued in his efforts to save Willow.

"Thomas, she's back now. She has your son, and you don't want to hurt her before you get to see him."

Thomas' grip loosened slightly and he looked at Willow.

"Is this true?"

"Yes," she croaked, starting to wilt against him.

"Thomas, drop the knife. Drop the knife and we will take you to your son." Spencer attempted to coerce the man, who's grip on Willow stayed the same.

"No, no, no," Thomas rambled, his eyes wide. "You're lying, I don't believe it!"

In his frenzy, Thomas pushed the knife further against Willow's neck.

"No!"

She could hear Spencer's voice bellow before she heard a gunshot. Willow collapsed onto the hard ground, her vision dancing with black spots.

"Baby," Spencer's voice cooed, and she felt his hands wrapping around her, pulling her into him.

Willow merely groaned in response, and opened her eyes slightly. She could feel Spencer's quickened heart rate against her ear, and it was calming.

"Spence," she gasped, and winced in pain at the effort.

"Oh, honey," Spencer muttered, his eyes filling with tears. "I'm so sorry. God, I should've protested against this more than I did. This is my fault, I'm so, so sorry."

"Not your fault," she managed to say; her voice was guttural.

Spencer let out a sob then, and rested his forehead against hers. Willow could feel a few of his tears land on her face.

"We need to get you cleaned up," he spoke, shaking his emotions off and lifting her into his arms bridal style. Willow allowed herself to wrap her arms around his neck as tightly as she could.

He carried her to the ambulance that had arrived on the scene, and laid her gently onto the gurney. He climbed in after her and stroked a long hand against her badly beaten face.

Her eyes fluttered, and Spencer tried to get her to stay awake.

"You can't fall asleep, honey. You probably have a concussion. I know you're tired, but let me see those eyes."

Willow groaned in response, wanting to succumb to the sweet darkness of sleep lurking behind her.

"Reid, how is she?" Hotch's voice suddenly filled her ears; he was standing at the entrance of the ambulance.

"She'll be okay, no thanks to you."

Spencer's words were harsh, and through Willow's blurry vision she could see him stand, his fists clenched at his sides.

"I'm sorry for what happened to Agent Brooks, Reid, but I don't regret my decision. We caught Thomas, and people were saved because of it."

"Oh, but it's okay that my girlfriend got beaten to a pulp and is in the back of an ambulance barely hanging onto consciousness?!"

The silence after Spencer's outburst was palpable, and Willow could hear Hotch sigh loudly.

"Reid, just take care of her. We'll talk later."

Willow could hear Hotch's steps dissipate into nothingness, before Spencer's presence returned to her. He stroked the blood-soaked hair from her face, his eyes glossy.

"Spence, he's our boss," Willow croaked out, attempting to plant a small smirk on her face before wincing at the movement.

"Shh," Spencer cooed, rubbing her face softly to try and get her to relax. "I know he is, but I told him this was a bad idea. I told everyone this was a bad idea."

Spencer's lips were taut in a tight line and his eyes held a mixture of determination, and some semblance of guilt. Despite her state, Willow picked up on the gears turning rapidly in Spencer's mind and quietly attempted to comfort him.

"It's not your fault."

-----Navigation

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[twoidiotwriters1]

The Curse of Oenone (Leo Valdez xFem!Oc)

A/N: The girls are (kinda not) fighting!! -Danny Words: 2,174 Series' Masterlist Previous Chapter // Next Chapter Listen to: 'Nothing/Sad N Stuff' -by Lizzie McAlpine

LXII: I'm Being So Normal About This

Ara's so used to not being noticed unless she wants to, that it catches her off guard when people move out of her way mumbling apologies without her having to utter a word. 

"This is my boy, Chuck!" Hedge's voice catches her attention and Ara makes her way to look at the tiny newborn the satyr is holding. 

Clarisse notices Ara the moment she's close enough and lets out a chortle, pulling her into a rough hug. "Everyone, look how tall Birdy has gotten!"

Ara blushes like crazy. Hedge places his son in her arms, she's never held anything this fragile. "He's... cute," Ara chokes, giving him a fleeting but genuine smile.

"Strategus, glad to see you're awake," Chiron appears, handing her a goblet. "Just in time for our toast." Ara stands in front of the crowd, Nico comes out of nowhere and places her gold laurel wreath on her head with a mocking smile. "Out of every tragedy," Chiron begins, "comes new strength. Today, we thank the gods for this victory. To the gods!" 

The crowd echoes that with little feeling. 

"And to new friends!"

"TO NEW FRIENDS!"

Her mentor gestures at Ara and she moves onward, carrying the confidence she gained while proving her worth in all the ways imaginable. Everyone cheers and hollers her name like viewers in a coliseum, and she would know, she fought in the best one. 

It doesn't do anything to fill the void in her chest.

Ara smiles at the demigods before her. "Thank you for fighting for what you love. Without you, I wouldn't've been able to protect this place," she raises her goblet. "What I told you last year, I repeat to our Roman family: I will be here for you, always. The future's brighter than it's ever been."

Everyone drinks to that, and Ara gulps down the content in her goblet hoping it'll take away the bittersweet taste on her tongue.

"Tomorrow, we Romans must return home. We appreciate your hospitality, especially since we almost killed you—"

"You almost got killed," Annabeth corrects playfully.

"Whatever, Chase."

The campers nudge each other and joke around. Ara is standing next to Nico, watching the scene unfold with a vague grin.

"Anyway," Frank adds. "Reyna and I agree this marks a new era of friendship between the camps."

"That's right. For hundreds of years, the gods tried to separate us to keep us from fighting. But there's a better kind of peace—cooperation."

"Are you sure your mom is a war goddess?" Piper calls from the audience.

"Yes, McLean. I still intend to fight a lot of battles. But from now on we fight together!"

Everyone cheers so loud Frank has to shut them up. "You'll all be welcome at Camp Jupiter. We've come to an agreement with Chiron and Ara: a free exchange between the camps—weekend visits, training programmes and, of course, emergency aid in times of need—"

"And parties?"

"Hear, hear!" Connor says happily. Ara notices he's got an arm around Lily's shoulders and Lily is terribly stiff but blushing and smiling. Both of them are glowing silver.

"That goes without saying. We Romans invented parties." Reyna jokes.

"Oh my gods." Ara grasps Nico's arm and whispers excitedly. "Oh my gods! Lily and Connor—"

Nico smirks. "Happened right after the battle. Lily pushed her way through looking like she was about to stab Connor, and before he even knew what was happening, Lily kissed him. It still kind of looked like she was hoping to kill him that way."

"Please, tell me I didn't—"

"The lake still awaits," Nico replies with dark joy. "I wanted to wait until you were conscious."

"Leo's right," Ara looks at him with gratitude. "You are one of my best friends."

Before Nico can react to that, Reyna pulls him forward, taking Ara and the boy by surprise. 

"We had one home," she smiles. "Now we have two."

Reyna hugs him so tightly that Ara covers her mouth waiting for an explosion... but nothing happens. 

She celebrates with the rest, then pouts. "Man, when do I get a hug?" 

Everyone gets up to leave but she whistles again, catching their attention. The girl grins wickedly. "I'd like you to take part in a tradition we Greeks love..." she stands before Lily and Connor. "And it only happens when two campers get together after years of driving their General nuts."

Lily's face gets redder and Connor's matches it with little effort. "I'm gonna kill you," the black-haired girl whispers lividly.

"I know." Ara looks at Annabeth with a huge smile on her face. "Let's take these lovebirds for a swim!"

Half of the crowd knows what's happening and the other is there to have fun. They follow Ara and her friends to the lake and watch Lily and Connor get tossed into the water unceremoniously. Ara claps loudly and then ushers the onlookers away. 

"Good job, everyone! Now go to bed! Malcolm—! Oh, thanks man," she grabs the towels he's brought for the couple.

Lily, Nico, and Connor are the only ones left. The short girl snatches her towel angrily and Connor quietly dries himself, but he's doing a terrible job of hiding how pleased he feels about all this.

"Boys, can you give us a minute?" Ara asks politely.

They hesitate. Nico frowns. "Are you gonna fight?"

"No," Ara rolls her eyes. "I just need to have a talk with my best friend... if that's okay with her?"

Lily nods curtly. Connor hangs his towel over one shoulder and takes Lily's, then pauses, unsure of how to make his exit. Ara smirks, ready to tease him endlessly.

"Oh, you want to kiss her goodnight? Just pretend like we're not here," she covers her eyes and sings loudly, turning her back on them for good measure and pulling Nico in the same direction. 

Ten seconds later, someone punches her really hard and Ara hisses, clutching her arm. "Dude! I got taller but your punches didn't stop being deadly..."

"You were so vain already, but now you've got longer legs and toned muscles? Ugh, you need to be sedated," Lily complains, crossing her arms grumpily.

Ara chuckles and stands upright, placing her hands on her hips and taking a good look at Lily—making a show of how she has to look down to see her properly. "You know, it feels like I haven't seen you in ages."

"I feel the same way."

Ara nods, a knowing smile on her face. "You have my figurine."

Lily's hand jumps to her right pocket. "How did you..."

"I saw it. You were talking to Connor on the hill," Ara points over her shoulder. "We should talk."

"Ara—"

She lifts a hand to silence her. "I'll explain. Come on."

The girls walk back to the Big House, then Ara goes to her room and searches through her closet, carefully pulling out something from the back and holding it with so much reverence it makes it seem like it will fall apart if handled otherwise.

"You recognize this?"

Lily glances between the hoodie and Ara's face speechless. "That's... how?"

"I've had it since my fourteenth birthday," Ara smiles wistfully. "Mike lent it to me and then I never gave it back..." she sighs shortly, shaking her head. "I kissed him that night."

"You what?" Lily squeaks.

"I'll explain on the way."

Most campers are calling it a day by now, but it's still not curfew, so Lily and Ara walk around without being threatened to get eaten by the harpies. Pollo approaches, strolling behind them lazily while Ara tells Lily the whole story.

"But... that means he didn't turn you down?"

"That's beside the point." They reach the campfire, always burning. "I ran away from him. It was never the same."

Ara looks at the hoodie and then passes it to Lily. Her friend stares at it and connects the dots. "It wasn't you trying to move on, it was the opposite... you couldn't deal with your unfinished business."

Ara nods in a composed manner. "When love is ignored, it rots. My feelings for Mike put me off balance for an entire year—he haunted me, and I stomped on every milestone Leo and I had because I couldn't let myself be happy knowing I'd robbed Michael of it."

"And now Leo is gone," Lily mumbles deep in thought, caressing the hoodie. "And we're back to square one."

"No, it's different." Ara presses her palm on the fabric. "I've made my peace."

"And what are we doing now?" Lily asks, knowing her friend isn't done.

"Mike's funeral rites." Pollo bumps into her and she reaches up to scratch him. "We burned a shroud for his cabin... but this is for us." Lily squeezes her hand, shaking a bit while she waits. "Michael did so much for me, and when I say a part of my heart belongs to him, I don't even say it romantically—He gave away his life for us willingly, and I didn't know how to handle it..."

Lily hugs Michael's hoodie and nods, hastily drying a tear. "He was my brother when I had no one. He never asked me to be who I wasn't and only pressured me when he knew I could be a thousand times better. People like him come... just twice in a lifetime." Lily looks at her with an intent gaze. 

The girls hold up the hoodie, lock eyes, and prepare. "What now?" Ara asks hoarsely. "Goodbye is too final and also too late, sorry is inadequate, and thank you is overdone..."

Lily tries to find the words. "My nonna used to say life lasted enough for each human to understand its value, that's why no one lives the same. I think he learned everything he had to and there was nothing left for him once that was done... Michael, I'll never forget our time together, your spirit will always tie our family."

"Mike," Ara speaks tearily, a mixture of longing and bitter peace stirring in her heart. "I'll always wonder... maybe one day I'll get to ask questions."

The girls move slowly, risking getting burned, and they place the hoodie in the fire. Ara hugs Lily sideways, leaning her head on top of the girl's. Pollo leans closer too, and the girls stroke his mane.

"Things are about to change again," Ara warns quietly.

"Nothing ever happens the same way twice," Lily responds wisely. "That's how we know we're growing."

Ara hums, leaning into her friend's hair. "You don't have to move on and leave Michael behind if you don't want to. The whole trip I yapped about him to everyone, even Leo... it is easier said than done."

Lily lets out a short teary chuckle. "Perhaps I should try to move on, Queen B... It's been a year. But I can't promise anything."

"It has been a year," Ara nods emphatically, rubbing the back of her neck. "Too many things happened. I'm not the Ara that lost her Michael... But I am the one that lost Leo," she takes a shaky breath. "My soulmate."

Lily wraps her arms around her waist loosely. "I gave him such a hard time... I knew he was harmless, I just didn't like him because he was making you laugh more than Mike and I ever did."

"Don't feel bad," Ara dries her tears. "He hated you just as much."

"Why are we involving Nico in this?"

"Because—!" The door opens abruptly and Nico faces them, looking sleep-deprived and grumpy. 

"Do you two ever stop being annoying?"

"You okay?" Jason eyes him with concern. "You look—"

"Fine," Nico snaps at him. Then he speaks in a controlled tone. "If you're looking for Hazel, she's still asleep."

Jason shakes his head. "We're looking for you. Ara called for a meeting, she has something important to share with us..."

Ara nods, looking over her shoulder. "And I need the Romans to hear it, so if we could just hurry..."

"It was strange to see them here, Camp Jupiter," Jason says with a little smile, his mind somewhere else. "Now it'll be strange not seeing them."

"Do you regret not going with them?" Nico asks.

"A little," he pushes his glasses up, Ara still doesn't get used to how he looks. "But I'll be going back and forth between the camps a lot. I have some shrines to build."

Nico frowns. "I heard the Senate plans to elect you Pontifex Maximus—that's what this is about?"

"I don't care about the title so much," Jason replies humbly. "I do care about making sure the gods are remembered. I don't want them fighting out of jealousy any more, or taking out their frustrations on demigods."

"They're gods," Nico raises a brow. "That's their nature."

"That's what I told him," Ara mumbles.

"I can try to make it better," Jason gives them a look. "I guess Leo would say I'm acting like a mechanic, doing preventative maintenance."

The mention triggers Ara into rambling. "So you'll definitely agree with what I have to say at today's meeting! I'm telling you—"

"Ara!" Will calls over. 

Nico's soul light flashes so fast, that she doesn't get to see its color, but the girl is certain that's what she saw. 

"The group leaves in thirty minutes!"

"Going!" Ara turns to the boys. "Please be on my side?"

Jason and Nico share a look. "Why us?"

Ara turns around pouting, making her way to the Big House with both boys following her tail. "Everyone else will claim I'm biased."

Next Chapter –>

Taglist.

@siriuslysirius1107 @ask-giggles1303 @im-planning-something-look @bandshirts-andbooks @coolninjapaper @thewaterlily @whenisthefall @1randomcomic @you-bloody-shank @sunflowergraves @owlalex44 @taylordaughter @typicalsolangelolover @writingmia @espressopatronum454 @slytherinnqueen @orbitingpolaris @obxstiles @ellipsisspelled @thepixiechicksh @ebony-reine-vibes

[chimcess]

Birdie Shoppe || pjm (V)

Pairing: Jimin x Reader Other tags: Werewolf!Jimin, Witch!Reader, Shifter!Reader, Shifter!Jimin, A/B/O Dynamics, Alpha!Jimin Genre: Supernatural!AU, Werewolf!AU, Angst, Mutual Pining, Fluff, Smut, Word Count: 7.1k Synopsis: Within the four realms of Lustra lay the Bangtan forest home to the Foxglove pack of the north and known as the “land of magic.” It is also home to the Birdie, a powerful witch from a cursed bloodline who is one of the sacred guardians of the forest. Y/N is the 123rd Birdie, a young girl who was given her position too early and asked by the goddess herself to fulfil a task none had ever done before- become the Grand Witch of the Foxglove pack. Now a woman, Y/N is revered as the most loved and powerful Birdie of all time, but hiding under the surface is a woman who has to battle between her duty and her heart. Chapter Warnings: Long-hair Jimin (yes, this is a warning), Cursing, Violence, Mentions of blood, Descriptions of blood, Descriptions of gore, Main Character Badly Injured, Did I say long-hair Jimin? (think The Witcher), the feels, ANGST, this is probably the most angst we’ve gotten, fluff, just Jimin being a cinnamon roll (partially edited) A/N: Not me updating within a month. I’ve been writing a ton lately, so I was able to pump this out. Hope you enjoy~

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My heart ached at the sight of Kim Taehyung. It had been little more than a day since he had been chosen and already his life was spiraling out of control. The pack did not accept him as their leader and Sol, while clear in her desires for him, had been barred from seeing him until everything had been sorted out. Namjoon had challenged him and his authority just before four in the morning which led him to my door step.

He looked worse for wear. His unruly hair tangled into matts that would take hours to brush out. Chief Ahn had taken out much of his frustration on the young boy and now Taehyung’s once lovely skin had bruises, welts, and cuts all over it. One look at him and I did not hesitate to allow him sanctuary. It was the least I could do for the man who saved me from heartbreak.

“I’ve got your face,” I mumbled, reaching back into another jar of salve. I had used two on his face and neck alone. “Take off your clothes. I need to make sure nothing is infected.”

Taehyung nodded, still crying. The moment I let him inside he had unleashed all of his emotions and was having a very difficult time getting himself under control. I did not mind. I felt pity for the alpha.

I was not surprised to find his body in just as bad of shape as the rest of him. I took great care not to stare for too long. I was not uncomfortable with his nakedness, but I was still aware that he was a man. Grip harsh, I started with his stomach. I let out a large, frustrated breath through my nose.

“I can’t believe this,” I grunted. “Why would you allow them to do this to you?”

Taehyung hissed in pain as I pressed too hard on a tender spot.

“I did not want to fight,” He replied.

I laughed humorlessly. “So they get to do as they please with you then?”

He did not know what to say.

“If you ever want to be taken seriously-” I opened up another jar of salve and began rubbing it into his chest, “-this will never happen again.”

Taehyung bit his lip and furrowed his eyebrows. He seemed upset by what I had said. He was such a naive boy. I felt my eyes watering with anger. If Kim Namjoon were here right now, I would kill him myself. How dare he allow anybody to do this to a child and feed into it by challenging him? I would be sure he knows just how unhappy I am with him.

“I do not want to rule with violence,” Taehyung said. “I don’t like fighting or shouting. It’s… uncivilized.”

I hummed. While I agreed I would not entertain the idea. Taehyung needs to fight if he wants to be seen. It is the only way to garner respect unless he wants to be compared to the others for the rest of his life. Chief Ahn would never allow that. Again, my anger spiked. That man…

“And yet you can come to my doorstep at the crack of dawn like some kicked puppy?” I spat. “Are you truly that pathetic?”

Taehyung whimpered and I almost felt bad. Harshness was necessary in these circumstances and I wanted him to become fired up. Instead, it only served to back him further into a corner. Taking a deep breath, I willed myself to calm down.

“Alpha,” I said.

“Taehyung,” He corrected weakly.

I sighed. 

“I apologize for my rudeness. I’m sure you’ve gotten enough of a beating for one night and I don’t intend to add to that.”

He laughed without humor. It was scary how much my temper flared at the sight of him. All I wanted to do was march down to the village and give every single one of them a piece of my mind. A certain fair haired man came to mind, and I saw red. How could he allow this to ever happen?

“However,” I continued, “You’re Sol’s mate. She needs you to be strong right now. Think about her.”

For the first time tonight, I saw something light up in his eyes. I knew it was torture for the both of them to be away from one another. Sol was probably raging a storm back in Foxglove and I knew she expected the same from her alpha. She would be dreaded to know where he was instead. Taehyung seemed to have picked up on that idea as well.

“I have been!” He snarled. “It’s the only reason I didn’t want to fight back! The chief is her father and she wouldn’t forgive me for that.”

I bit my tongue. As much as I wanted to throw him out for yelling at me, I was glad to see some spark in him. It made sense why he would allow Chief Ahn to get away with just about anything. The pack would kill him if he had laid a hand on the old man. However, the rest of the wolves should have been given no mercy. Again, I thought of Jimin and seethed.

I wiped my hands on my nightgown and stood. Taehyung was covered from head to toe in the salve, and already the marks were going away. It would take more than that to heal his bruised ribs. So, I went to the kitchen and looked around for a healing potion. I did not feel like making one at this hour.

“Why did you come here?” I asked, gently.

Taehyung sighed. “Because I knew you would help me.”

Again, my pity returned. While my blood boiled, my heart hurt for the alpha as well. I could imagine him hurt and abandoned, nowhere to turn to, and not being able to trust the local doctor. I found an old potion in the back of a cupboard.

“You can sleep here tonight,” I offered, handing him the potion. “Any wolf idiotic enough to poke at me is a dead man.”

Taehyung seemed at ease with this. Downing the potion, he curled up on the couch and closed his eyes.

“Thank you, Birdie,” He grinned.

I did not reply. Instead, I used my magic to bring him a few blankets and struck up the fireplace. He was weak and may not be able to regulate his body temperature as easily. It got cold in the living room at night. Seemingly satisfied with his place on my small, uncomfortable couch, Taehyung fell asleep within seconds. 

I had never seen anything like it in all my life. Stifling my laughs, I began blowing out the candles around my house, and put away all the used tubs of salve. I would need to make more soon. Exhausted and still recovering from the ceremony, I drug myself back to bed. Shiloh was waiting for me when I arrived.

“How many times do I have to tell you to take your bedrest seriously?” The barn owl nagged.

I groaned and rolled into my bed. It was warm and soft. Shiloh flapped to her nest.

“It was Taehyung,” I argued.

“I don’t care if it was Lilith herself, you better stay your-”

“Shiloh,” I warned, “Shut up.”

The bird grumbled to herself, but I was too far gone to pay attention.

I awoke to loud pounding on my front door. I could hear voices outside, none of them sounding too happy, but all I caught was the name of a pack alpha. Angry and still sore, I used magic to lift myself out of bed and threw on my robe. I saw Taehyung curled up in a ball in front of the sofa. He did not notice me until I was standing in front of the door. 

Shiloh was shouting at me to get back in bed, to let the wolves handle their own business, but I ignored her. When they decide to take their anger to my doorstep I have every right to give them a piece of my mind. Squaring my shoulders, I took a deep breath before forcing my arms forward.

My front door flew off its hinges and into whoever was standing behind it. Namjoon was unfazed by this and slapped the thick wood out of his way. I could see the shock in his eyes but I was not finished with my assault. I began to sing, a whirlwind of objects floating around the room. Namjoon backed away but this only pissed me off more. Shiloh shouted as a large, hot, blue flame sprouted from the palm of my hand and flew at the wolf.

“How dare you?” I shouted, everything dropped once my singing stopped. “Who the hell do you think you are?”

Hoseok and Jimin stood on either side of their brother. I knew I would regret attacking them eventually, possibly the moment they left, but I would not let myself falter. No one was going to come here and intimidate me. I don’t give a damn who they are attempting to fight with. 

“Birdie-” Hoseok pled.

Ignoring him, I kept my gaze perfectly trained on Namjoon. He stared at the large, ashen spot at his feet as I stared at him. My face burned with anger and I felt another surge of magic rush through my body. A dull ache began to form in my back and I knew I was bleeding again. I had used too much magic and my body was having a hard time healing. 

“Who do you think you are to challenge him, Namjoon?” I roared, eyes burning. “Sol chose him. The Goddess chose him! Do you think you know better than Lilith now?”

Namjoon swallowed thickly before finally looking at me.

“Of course not. I-”

“You listen to me,” I sneered. “If you ever get the gull to come bang on my door again, I swear to you, I will not show you the same mercy.”

Namjoon scoffed, “Mercy? You had better watch your tone, little girl. Especially with a limp like that.”

I opened my mouth to speak, but a voice from behind me beat me to it. 

“Don’t speak to her like that,” Taehyung said.

Namjoon seemed to darken. I felt my muscles clench as I readied myself to defend the boy. No one was going to hurt him. I promised to protect the Luna with my life, Sol was my good friend, and I refused to let harm come to her mate. I was as good as dead if I had. 

“There you are,” Namjoon taunted. “Been looking everywhere for you, infans.”

Taehyung growled. I steadied my racing heart. I would have to protect him inside. Namjoon would have the advantage of leaving, and I was vulnerable to the sun’s rays if he decided to extort that. Still, I positioned my hands defensively.

Suddenly, Shiloh flew out of the house and screeched loudly. Everything happened quickly. First, Shiloh was barreling towards Namjoon and then a wolf was standing in his place. I knew it was an accident. Taehyung was only trying to protect me, however, his massive frame surged me forward. I was in the sun before I could save myself, and soon my face slammed into my front steps and the sun beamed on my back.

My skin burned immediately and I could not help the tortured screams that flew out of my mouth. Unfocused eyes trained on Shiloh saw her turn towards me before a large, russet wolf shoved her out of the way with his nose. I felt many hands on me and I was dragged back inside.

My body trembled as I screamed. Every inch of my skin was on fire and I closed my eyes only to see white. It felt like someone was tearing me apart. All around me I heard screaming and shouting.

“What the fuck do we do?” Hoseok shouted.

“I don’t know,” It sounded like Taehyung was crying.

My eyes rolled to the back of my head and I could not think straight. The pain was numbing. Opening my eyes again, I saw my ceiling and raised one of my shaking hands. Black feathers had pierced through the skin and I cried out once more.

“Get away from her!” Someone screamed but I could not make out who.

“Is she alright?” 

I knew something was happening a few feet away but all I could focus on was the fire in my body. I knew this would subside eventually on its own, but I had something that could help. I just needed to gather the strength to get it. I opened my mouth to speak but could only scream.

“It burns,” I managed to grunt, convulsing.

I could feel hands on me but I could not get my eyes to focus. Sleep would be impossible now and I knew my body was in the worst shape it had ever been. Between the ceremony, the small amount of magic I used, and the sun I would be out of service for an entire week at this rate. Possibly even more.

“Move,” I heard Shiloh’s voice through the rest of the nonsense going on around me.

Looking through my lashes, instead of an owl there was a beautiful woman before me. Her fiery hair glistened in the sun and looked like it was underwater. Her skin had a dim glow to it and sparkled brightly. She looked like diamonds and I reached out to touch her. The spirit had tears in her eyes, the water shining brilliantly, before she caressed my hand.

“Sanitatem,” She whispered, fingers grazing my arm.

Instantly, I felt the relief I had been begging for wash over me. Sighing in relief, I closed my eyes and curled closely to Shiloh. I felt her fingers running through my hair and felt extremely tired.

“I’m going to put you to bed,” She whispered. “Where you belong.”

When I woke, I could smell food cooking. I was in my bed, my memory faded and hard to recall, but I knew Shiloh had been in her true form. Rubbing my eyes, I thought about Taehyung and my mood darkened. I could not remember the alphas leaving. My body screamed in protest as I sat up but I pushed forward. No one was going to harm him- not while I still had air in my lungs.

Upon entering the kitchen, I had to grasp my door frame for support. The stove was lit, I could smell the applewood, and one of my large pots was on top of it. The rest of the room was clean. Far cleaner than I ever left it. Someone had mopped and swept by hand. I could smell the lemons they used on the wood. Taking a large breath, I began taking a step forward.

“You should be in bed.”

I jumped up. Whipping my head around, Jimin was sitting in my recliner across the room. Taehyung was staring at me from in front of the fireplace. Neither Hoseok nor Namjoon were there. I could not feel or smell my familiar’s presence either.

“Where’s Shiloh?” I demanded, stumbling forward and grabbing on my island. 

Taehyung stood up and came toward me quickly. 

“Please, don’t push yourself, Birdie,” He said softly.

The alpha led me to my loveseat and helped me to sit down. Jimin sat beside me and covered me with one of my spare blankets. He must have went digging around while I was asleep. Sparing a glance at my hands, all of the feathers were replaced by nasty scars. They were pale white already, like they had been there for years, but I felt sad looking at them. I could only imagine what the rest of my body looked like. Almost sensing my mood, Jimin placed his hand over mine. I looked at him.

“She stepped out for a while,” He finally replied.

I had been angry with him, I remember vividly I thought of our next conversation, but being in front of him now it had all but vanished. There was no way Park Jimin would ever be fine with what had happened. Nor would Hoseok or Namjoon. Even thinking of him I found myself more sad than anything. I could only imagine how he had felt after everything had happened. I did not think anyone could have prepared for that amount of shock. However, gazing at Taehyung, most of my sympathy stopped there. Namjoon was still trying to kill someone else over his own lack of faith. His own ego was blinding him. I just hoped he could see that before he destroyed his own life. Sol would never forgive him and neither would I. 

“Is everyone alright?” I asked.

Jimin hummed, “Everyone but you. Namjoon and I got into a fight before he left but he’ll be fine.”

I scowled at Jimin. “I don’t like the idea of you fighting.”

He grinned, “Don’t worry, amica. I won.”

“Doesn’t change my feelings.” I grumbled and looked at Taehyung.

He seemed confused. While most of his face was perfectly schooled, his eyes told a different story. As they bounced back and forth between Jimin and I, I could see confusion turn into something… other. Almost, acceptance. Strange, I thought. I did not think about it too much. My affection for Jimin was likely apparent, and stronger, than that of the other alphas. The boy was probably trying to get used to it. Then he winked at me and I looked away,

Was it possible that he had caught onto my feelings? Had I sized him up too quickly? I knew he was mischievous and care free, but I also knew he was very aware of others. When he had spoken so passionately about being what a good ruler was, I had gotten that impression as well as his own naivety. However, my troubles were quickly dismissed as I looked into Jimin’s eyes. It was impossible to stress when he was around.

“Do you mind if I stay with you both for a few days?” He asked.

My eyebrows shot up. 

“What for?” I replied.

Jimin hesitated before responding. “I found the letter that your friend sent you in your coat pocket. Your familiar asked me if I would stay.”

Confused, I frowned. What on Earth was he talking about? Racking my brain, I found myself at a loss before the lightbulb went off. 

“Wendy!” I exclaimed. 

Going to stand, Jimin gently grabbed my arm. He looked bashful and unsure of himself. I was just like the last time he had been here, only it felt different. He almost looked… afraid to tell me what he had read. My breath quickening, I pulled my arm out of his grasp.

“What did it say?” I asked, wearily. 

When I got no response, I lifted myself up and ignored the two men. I hobbled to my coat rack. However, strong arms wrapped around me before I made it a foot away from the sofa. 

“Taehyung,” I threatened. “Put me down. Now.”

“Sit,” He pleaded and walked me back over to the living space.

Frustrated and anxious, I turned my head and bit the side of his arm. The wolf yelped before letting go of my wait. I stumbled, wobbled over, before landing on my ass. 

“This is ridiculous,” I complained, slowly lifting myself up. I ignored Taehyung’s outstretched hands. “You come to my home, go through my things, and then not allow me to read my own letter? She’s my friend! If it’s important I ought to know.”

Jimin sighed, frustrated. I refused to back down and continued to stand up. Taehyung had given me some space, which I appreciated, but was close enough to catch me if I fell down again. The older alpha and I had a stare off.

Finally, after a few minutes of silence, Jimin spoke, “If you had more patience, I could have given it to you. It’s in my pocket.”

“If you,” I countered, limping back to the sofa, “had just said that instead of looking at me like an idiot then I couldn’t have gotten up.”

The alpha glared at me but said nothing more. Snatching the paper from his hands, I made myself comfortable in my spot. Taehyung came closer, a weary look on his face. An apology was in order but I fought with my own pride to give it. He picked me up without consent and so I bit him. End of discussion. Still, the need to tell him I was sorry was strong.

Birdie,

I’m happy to hear you are feeling better. However, I’m sure by the time this reaches you the Luna’s ceremony would have taken place and you’ll be back in bed again. I’ve always marveled at how powerful you are and yet so fragile. My mother thinks it was the way the Gods meant for it to be. You’d be far too much if you had all of your abilities and the same willpower as any other witch. In other words, goodluck and I hope you have a fast recovery.

In other news, my sister has decided to marry Seojun. I am very happy for her and I know Irene will make a good wife. It did, however, make me think of you and I. Will there ever be someone for us? Will you ever get the chance to find them even if they were out there? It’s incredibly mean for the Gods to put you under such horrible conditions. At least you are able to leave in a way Aldara never was. I do hope I can learn of your name before you pass on. I’ve known you for far too long and we’re too close for me not to. Please tell me you will.

Birdie, would you hate me if I told you I was considering staying here? My time in Northorn has opened my world to many possibilities. Then I think of you, Yoongi, and Seokjin and the thought repulses me. Oh, I love him. I love Seokjin. I want him to be with me and yet… my eyes still wander. Is that wrong? I know you understand me more than anyone else. Have you ever thought about telling him how you feel or is it too scary? Because I’m scared, Birdie. I’ve hurt him too much.

I should stay here, right? Spare both him and Yoongi the heart ache. Goddess knows I’ve put too much of a strain on their relationship already. From what I hear, they’re already back to being friends since I’ve kept away. Yes, I think I will stay here.

Please help me. Do something for me. I’m confused and unsure of myself. Irene says I’m overthinking everything, but I know you will be more honest. Sending you all of my heart- at least what is left of it.

Your dearest friend,

Wendy

Rereading the letter over again, I felt my heart sink. Shiloh must have decided to go and see her after finding out. I mentally thanked her and immediately went to fetch a pen and paper. Neither wolf tried to stop me.

It made sense now why Jimin would hesitate to talk with me about the letter. He had never, as far as I know, met Wendy. It must have been confusing to read through. I remembered her line about me understanding her and my stomach sank. That must have been a strange thing to read about, too. I cursed under my breath before I began to write.

Wendy, my darling,

I am fine. There is a lot happening in Bangtan at the moment, most of which I hardly understand, and it has taken its toll on me. Between the ceremony and now I haven’t one moment of peace. I do hope you can help me relax once you return. I know you will. 

Forget about those two fools and remember why you have stayed here all this time: your mother, the sisterhood, your coven, and the forest. Whoelse can tame a magindara like you? No one. Who can purify the sea and sing with the shore like you? No one. Do not let petty, childish things stop you from enjoying your life. You will always have me and I will forever be there. I’m happy for Irene! Her engagement is splendid news and I wish I could be there with her. 

However, Lilith has chosen a different path for me just as she has chosen one for you. I am frightened, Wendy. Everyday I am scared of what it will bring, but I do not let that stop me from enjoying the sunshine. I love the flowers, the trees, and the winds that ripple through them. Aldara used to tell me, “Fear reminds us that we’re alive, and without it many would surely be dead.” So, don’t kill yourself off just yet, darling. Keep swimming and come home. Talk to Jin and he will understand. Yoongi has no ill will toward either one of you. Let go of your fantasies and stay rooted in the reality of your heart.

You were meant to be with the most stubborn, loud, obnoxious, lovely, kind-hearted man in all of Lustra. You and I both know that, and have known that, for a long time. So go for it. Even if I am afraid, you do not have to be. See you soon.

Missing you greatly,

Birdie (I’ll tell you someday. I promise.)

My body was beginning to loosen and the pain was becoming bearable. Satisfied with my response, I waved it in the air to make it dry faster as I rummaged through my drawers for an envelope. I could only hope I could muster the strength to send it off. If Shiloh were hare, she would have went off herself or asked one of the boys, but I was on my own now. Alone and in desperate need to get this damn letter to Wendy. Shuffling to my ceremonial bag laying by the front door, I sifted through it until I found my Meteor Powder. 

I knew I was taking a risk with this sort of thing, but I had to be willing to risk it if it meant I could change Wendy’s mind. I was already hours behind. Without a second more to lose, I gathered up a piece of parchment and a pen to begin drawing. Remembering Wendy’s face was simple enough, years of drawing and perfecting using the powder making it almost easy to do, but I still felt uneasy. My heart would not rest until I received word back or the sea witch showed up at my door.

Praying that I got every soft feature right, I contemplated adding color but quickly dismissed the idea. It would not really make any difference and I was not sure if her hair was dark or light anymore. Wendy often went through fazes with that sort of thing. Laying the paper on the floor, I said her name for good measure, and threw the powder on top of it. Less than a second later, the paper was gone and I sighed. 

“Hope she got it,” I mumbled to myself.

It was Taehyung who broke my trance.

“That was so cool!” He exclaimed.

I chuckled, “Not as cool as my own magic, but it’ll have to do. I can hardly feel anything in my body.”

Walking back to the couch, I curled up beside Jimin. He looked worried again and I realized I had messed up. Admitting that I was weak and tired would only make him drag me back to bed. Readily myself for another spat, I squared my shoulders and looked at him.

“She seemed upset,” He said instead. “I had not realized your friends were involved in that way.”

I hid my surprise well. It did make sense for Jimin to worry about others, I had just never imagined he would take my friend’s hardships so seriously. Grinning, I nodded.

“It’s been a thing since we were children. Don’t worry too much, she will come back and they will be together.”

“Why aren’t they now?” It was Taehung who asked.

“Because,” I sighed, “they’re both far too stubborn.”

Taehyung was a nice company to have around. He took good care of his things, cleaned up after himself, and was useful. I had stopped sending supplies to Foxglove, something that neither Taehyung or Jimin agreed with, but it did not change my mind. They did not deserve my help if this is what they were going to do with it. No one had come to collect anything either, so I assumed they were boycotting my services indefinitely. 

Wendy had written to me the following morning confirming she was coming back. She had even written to Seokjin. While I did not know what she had said I could take a few guesses. It was only a matter of time before Seokjin told me all about it. He was the worst at keeping secrets. 

Taking a deep breath, I opened my eyes and stared at my altar. My magic had come back a few days ago and I had been allowing it to rest. Today was the first time I had performed a ritual spell in days. Looking over my shoulder, I smiled gently at Jimin napping on my sofa.

He had not left since he arrived. While we had not spoken much since that night, he was doing his best to help Taehyung make a plan to win over the town. While I thought it was foolish to think he could do such a thing without a fight, I believed in them enough to support it. Jimin was a loved person and having him on Taehyung’s side greatly increased his odds. I knew the pack was feeling his absence.

“What’s a cah-dee-jo?” Taehyung asked, obnoxiously loud.

“A cadejo-” I corrected, rolling my eyes, “-are spirits that help worthy travelers find their way.”

Taehyung raised an eyebrow. “And if they’re not worthy?”

“They’ll eat them,” I replied easily.

The alpha had been interested in my books after finding something I had written about the magindara when I was a kid. He was going through them so quickly, I was having to go to the cellar to get new material for him. As naive as he was, Kim Taehyung was a bright young man with a vivid imagination. He always asked questions, never settled for one answer, and listened carefully. 

“Why?” He asked.

“Why not?”

He said nothing after that and went back to reading. I had started growing fonder of the man and hoped he was able to go back home. When he spoke of his siblings his eyes lit up and it broke my heart. His parents must be worried sick. 

Having spent most of my morning sitting, I decided to make lunch. I was expecting Shiloh to be back later today. Wendy said my familiar had gotten to her inn just before she sent off her letter, so I knew the owl was safe. Thinking about her I grew emotional. Exposing her spirit form was extremely dangerous, a risk I would never have asked her to take, and she had done it regardless. 

Going to my kitchen window, I whistled loudly and began pulling out a pot and pan. Tomato soup sounded lovely and I could always make a quick loaf of bread. A few minutes later, Delinah was at my window. Looking up from the onion I was dicing, I grinning at the deer.

“Morning, Dee,” I greeted.

She bowed her head. “Glad to see you moving around. You gave us all a fright.”

I hummed, scooping the onions and throwing them into the pot along with three whole heads of garlic, some fresh herbs, and oil. In the corner of my eye I saw Jimin beginning to stir on the sofa. 

“I’m good as new,” I joked, using a spell to light my stove. “Would you mind fetching some tomatoes from Seokjin’s garden? I’d ask Shiloh but she’s out of the forest for the time being.”

“Where’d she head off to?” Delinah asked, pulling the cloth tote I kept on the windowsill into her mouth.

“Northorn,” I replied.

“Northorn? What’s so important in that miserable place?”

I laughed, placing my knife down to help my friend get the tote around her neck. Delinah nuzzled my hands. Giving her a quick pat on the head, I promised her carrots when she got back.

“And to answer your question,” I walked back to the counter. “Wendy is attempting to run away so she’s bringing her back.”

She laughed, “Oh, that Wendy. You never know what you’re going to get with that one.”

“But we love her.”

Jimin was up and walking around right after Delinah left. Taehyung was still head-first in my magical beasts book. I took over my try of onions and garlic and let them begin roasting over the open flame of the stove. The tomatoes would not take long to char. I could hear the two men talking quietly but decided to play them no mind. It was hard to have privacy in this house as it was.

Delinah was back quickly and I sent her off with a bundle of carrots. After roasting the tomatoes, I used my pestle and mortar to blend everything together. Working in small batches, I took my time to be sure everything was smooth before throwing it into the pot I had taken out. 

“Birdie,” Taehyung called out. “Can I get your opinion on something?”

I nodded, “Ask away.”

“I want to write a letter to Namjoon but I’m not sure how he’d take that.”

I paused for a moment to think. While it might be a wise idea to test the waters with a note of some kind, I was also not foolish enough to think he would be able to deliver something to the village at this time. People were looking for him and to show his face might lead to more speculation. However, he had to do something before the elders made a decision as to what to do with him. Namjoon had officially challenged him and only revoking that, which would terminate the fight, would be his best option. I had full faith in Taehyung’s ability to defend himself if he truly wanted, but his personality would make it hard for him to commit to a brawl. Namjoon would win just from his determination alone. 

“I don’t think that would help much,” I admitted. “Everyone is committed to seeing you fight at this point, and your runaway stunt has them more on guard. I would seriously begin considering a fight, Taehyung. It’s your only option right now.”

I heard his sigh of defeat and felt saddened. I empathize with the alpha’s situation. I knew it would be a hard thing for him to do. In my younger years, Aldara enjoyed teaching me defensive magic but I could never strike her back. It was not until that night I truly saw what I could be capable of if left to my own devices. I shuddered at the thought. I would not wish that on anybody- especially Kim Taehyung. Mixing the soup, I spoke.

“I’m sorry it has to be this way.”

“Me too,” He replied.

The three of us ate our lunch in silence. Jimin had been more quiet than usual and I knew his brain was on overdrive. He had also been away from his family, his pack, and his home for three days without an end in sight. I knew how hard the silence could be and even then I had been quieter. Still, it must be hard on him. It was a wolf’s nature to be with his family. 

Taehyung did not ask anything after that. The rest of the day, he sat on the floor near the fireplace and read book after book while Jimin looked out of the windows. They never went outside. I managed to do a few chores, practiced some new spells, and wrote in my grimoire, but nothing else had sparked an interest in me. The tension in the house was suffocating. It was not until Shiloh returned at sunset that the house stirred.

In a whirlwind, the barn owl flew through my bedroom window, her loud voice bouncing off the walls. Carelessly I threw my pen down onto my grimoire. Black ink smeared into the pages ruining all of my hard work, but I did not care. She was back and I could breathe a bit easier then. I knew Shiloh would have an answer. She always knew what to do.

“Between those wolves and you witches,” She complained, “I’ll never, ever catch a break.”

“Oh, Shiloh,” I cooed, opening my arms to her.

My familiar raced into my waiting embrace and let herself be babied. I pet her head and smoothed her feathers down gently. The owl leaned into my touches with joy. I could not remember the last time I had smiled so widely since she had gone.

“You’re so strong and mighty, little one. I missed you dearly.”

She laughed, “I’m so happy to see you up and walking around.”

“Where’s Wendy?” I asked, letting her go.

Shiloh flew into the kitchen and I followed behind her. She must be exhausted after the long journey. She pecked at the bread from lunch and made note of the wolves in the living room.

“She’ll be back after her sister’s wedding.”

“Oh, wonderful!” I clapped my hands together in delight. 

“Another pain in my ass,” She mumbled.

And I laughed, and laughed, and laughed.

It was always an adjustment when you first transform, I found. Even after all this time I was slightly disoriented after the whole ordeal. The first night Taehyung had been here, he had almost broken my bedroom door down trying to see if I was alright. If Jimin had not reassured him, I was sure he would have been traumatized by the scene. It was the fourth night now, and Taehyung slept peacefully through my screams. Shiloh had gone to bed extra early. Jimin was the only person still awake when I flew through the kitchen window.

He was still dressed in the same clothes he had been wearing for days. I hand washed everything twice, but he insisted on keeping them. I had made clothes for Taehyung and was a bit upset at Jimin’s rejection. However, I never brought it up again. I simply washed them and used magic to get them dry. 

Tonight, however, he had taken off the long cape he usually wore. His socks and shoes were also somewhere else, and I noticed his belt was also missing. He wore his hair down, the silver strands sitting at his waist, and I saw a simple headband keeping his bangs out of his eyes. He was sitting at the kitchen island staring at whatever he had been writing. I decided to go to him.

“Hello,” He offered, a smile that did not meet his eyes thrown my way.

He looked tired, more so than usual, and worn. Taehyung snored loudly on the floor and rolled over. Jimin did not bat an eyelash and continued looking at the papers. I hopped closer and twisted my head to look at them. The alpha did not try to stop me.

B.

They turn into paste if you mash them. By hand, they keep their nectar, and the flavor is much better.

When they’re whole you need to wait much longer for the flavor to seep through.

No, but it is one that is very dear to me.

I realized it was the paper I had used when I had visited him a few weeks ago. I felt myself growing emotional. He had kept it… something so inconsequential and yet he had kept it. Apparently, he even walked around with it. My heart grew fonder with every encounter we shared, and I found I could not breathe properly.

“It brings me comfort,” Jimin whispered. “Knowing that you’re out there.”

Turning to look at him, I found him crying. The moonlight illuminated his delicate face and the tears that ran down his cheeks. For the first time since I have known Jimin, I felt sure of myself. Drawing near, I gently flapped my wings and landed in his lap. Clicking, I rubbed my face on his stomach and allowed the warmth within me to shine. He had kept it. 

Jimin grabbed me and held me tightly as he wept. What his sorrows were for, I was not sure, but I had to guess it was something to do with this situation. Whatever the case may be, I melted into his touch. He was always so open with me like this. I wished he would hold me tightly as a woman, too. I knew I was beginning to grow greedy but did not care anymore. He had kept that stupid piece of parchment and I was completely done attempting to care about customs. I loved him more than anything else.

“I don’t know what to do,” He whimpered. “I couldn’t live with either of them dying.”

And as mad as I was at Namjoon, as badly as I wanted to throw him against a wall and scream in his face for being such a pig-headed nitwit, I could not say I wanted him dead. We were friends after all. Even after our spat the other morning I could call him that freely. I knew something had to give sooner or later. It killed me to see Jimin torn up.

The alpha only allowed himself two minutes to cry. After that, he apologized to me profusely before gently setting me back down on the island. Wiping his face aggressively, he excused himself before leaving the cottage entirely. I wanted to go after him but thought he might need the space and time to think. Looking down at the paper at my feet, I felt something shift inside of me.

So what if a letter is offensive? They beat Taehyung to a bloody pulp, exiled him, and made his friend think he needed to challenge him in order to keep the pack in order. If a simple letter would be the thing to set them off then I would happily be the bad guy. Knowing that I was more than likely making an awful choice, that the chances of someone else getting their hands on Namjoon’s letter were high, I still had to try. I would never see Jimin cry like that again. My mind made up, I gathered up some paper and an ink jar and began to write.

Taglist: @greezenini​ @adventures-in-bookland​ @kthstrawberryshortcake-main​ @zae007live @jimin-neverout @nikkiordonez12​ @canarystwin​​

© chimcess, 2023. Do not copy or repost without permission.

[astroyongie]

Le Sserafim February Reading Edition

Note: Please enjoy the reading and take it with a grain of salt ! 

Chaewon

Love: complicated situation. She isn’t in a relationship but is indeed in a sort of affair with someone older. She knows very well this isn’t taking her anywhere and that she shouldn’t be with this person. Although I don’t see any harm going to her from this kinda of relationship, she also isn’t happy with the situation she is in

Career:  I don't have much info about her career other that things are advancing at their own pace and that she is on the good path

Health:

Physical: High blood pressure and chest pains are frequent too

Emotional: She doesn’t speak of her mental health but at the moment she is doing rather okay

Song: Pepas by Farruko

Sakura

Love: She is currently single and actually she hadn’t been looking for any realtionship nor be with anyone lately. She misses having someone by her side but sh eis keeping herself away from people and running away from physical contact for the moment being

Career:  A lot happing in her career. I see Sakura gaining a lot of money lately and investing It smartly as well and she is also having her backs secured by the company. There’s a lot of benefice being made through her and Sakura is also trying to help her members when it comes to finances. Everything seem to be going well

Health:

Physical: I feel like she had been suffering something related with her relationship with food lately. Of course take it lightly,

Emotional: She is extremely sensitive and emotional at the moment

Song: My Understandings by Of Mice And Men

Yunjin

Love: She isn’t in an official relationship at the moment but she had been talking with someone lately and things have been going very well between them. It’s something to watch to see if it can envolve

Career:  Yunjin have been having a lot o fights and arguments with people inside the company (managers, staffs, possibly members as well). She isn’t happy with her situation at the moment, she wants more, but management is trying to balance it all. Yunjin is also working very hard to get to her ambitions 

Health:

Physical: Many headaches, toothaches as well and high blood pressure 

Emotional: okay 

Song: Wings by Birdy

Kazuha

Love: Just like the girls she isn’t in a relationship, but she has been a fatal woman lately. She has her own flings, see people she wants and she feels very feminine and powerful. However she needs to be careful with those desires she had because her actions also ended up making a couple breaking up

Career: Things are going well too, I see a lot of money between her hands and Kazuha is actually enjoying that life and allwioing herself to spend and be happy with what she earns  

Health:

Physical: She needs to be careful with her womb pains and stomach in general. Also get liver and lumbar area

Emotional: She feels quite agitated lately, also her mind likes to play tricks on her. In reality she is in a very vulnerable phase

Song: Bones by Imagine Dragons

Eunchae

Love: Since she is still a minor, Eunchae needs to be very careful. Because yes she had fun, with little crushes and stuff like that which are unharmful considering the nature of those things. However she shouldn’t be so naive when people approach her with contracts and beautiful phrases because Eunchae can easily fall into situation that will be not good for her. She needs to be careful about a man In particular

Career:  Things are going well too, she is working hard and getting the rightful gain for it. I see that she was one of whom Yunjin had arguments with. I also see something solo for Eunchae, something that she will be able to do and show her colors for

Health:

Physical: Her ankles are sore, but so is her throat. Also she needs to drink more water to avoid any kidney issues

Emotional: okay

Song: Phoenix by Molly Sanden

[kermits-cup-of-tea]

ok but the scene that started me crying watching catherine called birdy was when rollo announces aislinn is pregnant again. before that, it was kind of serious but in a haha thumb up the nose at the institution kind of way, then it gets more serious. because despite losing 6 babies during childbirth, rollo and robert are delighted at the possibility of "ooh another baby!" while birdy is understandably horrified, her mother is too but she's learned she has to hide it, she's "learned her place" so to speak

then when birdy and aislinn are talking later, aislinn tells her how proud she is that birdy still fights, still tries to work her way out of marriage and being nothing more than a bargaining chip, but that she's also terrified for her

ethelfritha says something similar, she says birdy really is a bird then calls herself and birdy beasts. birdy still has her wings, she hasnt been tied down yet, she still fights the system

idk what exactly im trying to say but the inherent sisterhood and feminine connection that is just so present in this movie makes it so much more moving to me because yes it could have just been "ooh a girl comes of age in the 13th century" but its so much more than that. its so perfect in its delivery, like birdy sells herself to save her friend because even if she cant be happy, others deserve to be so she is trapped between a rock and a hard place: refuse shaggy beards money, but condemn her best friend to a life of misery, or save her friend and know she is well taken care of and hope that maybe shaggy beard wont be completely terrible because at least she'll have nice things and never want for anything. and her brother can only see wedding rings, her father at the very least seems to realize the gravity of what she's done

this movie does subtle horror/terror so well, like on the outside yes its a dramedy but really its... so sad and tragic, someone said by the end all birdy wants is to be as close to happiness as she can get. thats such a terrifyingly sad thought, that even after all that she went through, thats her lot in life is to not even be happy its to be as close to it as possible

AND ANOTHER THING:

birdy at the end loves her father as much as she is able, which... parallels to what george says about loving ethelfritha i...

also the acting in it is phenominal, all the actors portraying women got that "im happy but god i am so scared for you" look down perfect, while the actors portraying men got the obliviously happy look

[phoenixeclipse-lmkau]

The Ice Demon

Sun Wukong and The Six Eared Macaque get pissed off and leave the group in a huff. The group is attacked soon after at Pigsy runs off to beg for their help. During this time Phoenix nearly dies, the monkey demons return just in time to save their BELOVED.

Phoenix panted as she stared at the ground, everything was spinning, her ears rung with a loud piercing sound, and the pain in her chest only seemed to be increasing with each forced breath. She slowly pulled her face up to look at the demon in front of her, a wicked smile covering it’s face as the snow around her got colder.

“Oh come now dear, you’re not really going to die on me because of such a small scratch right?” The ice demon laughed loudly as Phoenix tried to get up only to fall back down.

“Phoenix!” Tripitaka shouted from inside of Phoenix’s powerful shield.

No one would be able to break the shield, it would be the smart to bring the shield to her but Tripitaka was all the way across the clearing and she could only make one. If she moved it he would get hurt and probably die, she needed to think of another plan. She wasn’t a fighter who could fight another demon head on, not one of this strength. If only Sun Wukong, Macaque or Pigsy were able to be here.

Ao Lie and Sandy were both frozen in ice as the demon looked down at Phoenix with a wide grin across her face. She took several steps forward and the temperature began to drop all around her, not just from the attacks either. Pain coursed through her as fear bubbled in her chest wildly, she had to think of a plan. At this rate… Her body was already starting to fall asleep either because of the blood loss or her body trying to go into hibernation she couldn’t tell.

“Come on, I’ve always wanted to taste the blood of a phoenix~ It’s too bad that you won’t survive for very much longer, you are a cute little thing aren’t you~” The demon giggled with a gleeful look in her eye as a cold hand wrapped around Phoenix’s throat.

“H-Help,” Phoenix could barely speak, she couldn’t feel the blood that dripped down her body from the gaping wound in her chest her body was numb from the cold. As she opened her mouth again the hand tightened around her throat and her world slowly began to fade.

*CRASH*

Phoenix was dropped, a strange heat was right behind her pushing away the cold that had been encasing her. Her feet barely touched the ground as all of her weight fell to the forest floor with a thud. She coughed, blood coming out of her mouth as she tried to look up. Even if she had been able to move she wouldn’t have been able to tell who it was, but something about the heat was familiar, so familiar. She couldn’t think about it much longer as her world went black and the last thing she heard was…

“No one gets the kill our little birdie but us~” Oh Pigsy got the monkeys to come back. That was good, right?

>>><<< 

“H-Help,” Her voice sounded so weak and pathetic, nothing like the normal annoyance and confidence she normally held. The very thought of it sent Macaque and Wukong into a furious state as they saw what they believed to be an annoyance being choked by some… worthless insect.

Yes it was nothing but an insect now dead, crushed under Sun Wukong’s powerful staff. Blood splattered against the ground and chunks of the demon were strewn across the clearing floor. The look of pure manic sadistic pleasure covered his face.

Macaque had walked over to the unconscious girl who looked half dead, her head rolled on her shoulders as he picked her up in what was a gentle hold. It didn’t really matter who saw, she wouldn’t believe that they were nice to her like this.

“Is she okay?” Pigsy asked as he came up, looking over the woman who was bleeding heavily.

“Phoenix!” Tripitaka shouted as he ran over, the shield still swirling around him protecting him from any danger.

Macaque and Wukong couldn’t help the short growl, it was his fault. Yes it was because of that damn monk that they almost lost their birdie to someone else. No one got the pleasure of killing her but them, they wouldn’t let anyone else kill what was rightfully theirs. She was theirs no matter what she thought about them.

“Please allow me to heal her,” He said frantically. They didn’t want him anywhere near her, but if they didn’t allow this than they wouldn’t get the pleasure of killing her later. With a grumbled sigh, Macaque set her back down on the ground and took a few steps back as Tripitaka ran up to her and placed his hands on her bloody chest.

Almost immediately her face began to flush with life, the wound on her chest glowed a golden hue and began to close. Her short shallow breaths became deep meaningful gasps as she tried to refill her lungs with air. Her mask which was on her face the last time they saw her was laying on the ground next to her. They could see her cheeks slowly regain color as her obsidian black eyes snapped open and she threw herself into a sitting position.

“W-What happened!? Tripitaka! Sandy! Ao Lie!” She instinctively called to them causing the monkeys to slightly growl in annoyance.

They weren’t the ones who had just saved her, why was she worried about those weak fools? Of course annoyance didn’t even slightly dent the feeling that they felt when she wrapped her arms around Tripitaka and started crying. Tears sliding down her face, she looked so weak, pathetic, cute and almost irresistible. If not for that inferior monk they would probably have her trapped between them in tears for hours. But no- That monk just had to be here, if only the shield would just break-

Their synced thoughts were cut off when Phoenix suddenly wrapped her arms around the monkeys causing them both to freeze. Her cries were but a sniffle now but she was right next to them, touching them. All violent thoughts flew out the window as they embraced the hug, refusing to hug back.

“Thank you, for saving my life,” She pulled away and dropped to her knees bowing to them in gratitude, raising her head their hearts nearly burst at the adorable sight. Like this she looked so small and helpless. Her eyes were red from tears, her cheeks flushed, and her clothes were in tatters due to the fight. She was safe and no longer hurt now, the demon was dead and… most of the clothing on her chest was ripped away, her shoulders on full display and with that fuckable look on her face they barely surpassed their purrs.

“We already said, no one gets to kill our birdie but us,” Wukong rolled his eyes with arrogance, barely hiding the fact that he had been staring at her.

“Regardless of that, you have my gratitude. I thank you deeply,” She repeated with another bow, this one she did while standing up, once again a foot taller than them.

“Thank goodness you’re okay, I was so worried when you sent me to find the Monkeys! You barely survived I assume,” Pigsy chuckled with a slight snort.

Wukong and Macaque smirked, when Pigsy had arrived he had been on his knees begging them to help. Originally, they planned to just let them die, but then he mentioned the ice demon taking an interest in their birdie. They knew she wasn’t one to fall prey to others easily, but she tended to be rather stupid when trying to protect the dumb monk.

So they had decided to help. It didn’t take long before they left the clearing and found another to lay in for the night. They were all tired, exhausted and weak. The monk was still protected by the shield which stopped them from attacking the other members knowing the headache spell would quickly be ignited if they did.

Glancing back over at Phoenix they noticed she was half laying on Ao Lie’s horse form. Oh the poor thing, she must be so tired~ Surprisingly Tripitaka didn’t seem to think to use the headbands and was more worried with getting her to lay down. She was physically healed but she would need rest and quite a bit of it. Luckily it was dusk and time to sleep. She always did look so cute when she was passed out and vulnerable, Wukong couldn’t help but think getting a short jab from Macaque.

Of course, that only made him snuggle up with his partner after they jumped into a tree. Not for the first time they wondered what to do about Phoenix but when no one was listening Wukong had a small idea.

“She was so cute~ wonder what she’d look like under us~” He mentioned almost silently, getting a chuckle from his mate. He wasn’t one to share his things, but with his mate that was different. She’d make such a cute toy, though he began to think they’d have to be a little more careful with just how fragile she truly is.

“Yes, we have to break that dumb shield first. Then she’s all ours,” Macaque replied as he kissed his king, the thought alone made them both giggle.

-----

At this point in the AU they have decided that they want to have her but they don’t know why. They have yet to decide that they are obsessed with her, love her. They won’t let anyone else kill her and won’t hurt her but they refuse to show it and instead throw insults at her to hide their emotions.

PhoenixEclipse Shorts - Not a set part of the Fanfic I am currently writing. Though I might add it in later, for now it is merely a one-shot.